The successful hosting of the 2026 South East Regional Security Summit in Umuahia has continued to attract widespread commendation, with many stakeholders describing it as a significant step toward consolidating peace, security and sustainable development across the South East.

Following the high-profile gathering and the recent Umunneochi homecoming reception, Ambassador Dr. Osita Offor, “De Ultimate Commander,” (Ikenga Gburugburu of Ohafia and Nneato Ancient Kingdoms), has praised Governor Alex Otti for his commitment to regional peace, describing the outcomes of the summit as a bold and timely intervention in strengthening unity and security across the South East. Many observers note that his commendation further underscores his consistent support for pragmatic leadership, regional unity and forward-thinking governance in Abia State and the South East.

Governor Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, while hosting the summit at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia, reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to strengthening security across the region, describing security as the bedrock upon which economic prosperity and sustainable development are built.

Speaking on the summit’s theme, “Collaborative Approaches to Strengthening Security and Regional Stability,” Governor Otti stressed the importance of intelligence sharing, resource mobilisation, public enlightenment and strategic investments in surveillance technology to ensure that crime becomes increasingly difficult and unattractive.

The Governor also emphasized the need to curb political violence as the nation gradually enters another election cycle, insisting that no citizen should suffer intimidation or violence because of political affiliation or democratic choice.

The summit drew participation from senior government officials, security chiefs, traditional rulers, religious leaders and stakeholders from across the South East. Representatives of the Governors of Imo, Anambra, Enugu and Ebonyi States commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his support towards strengthening security nationwide, while also applauding Governor Otti for hosting the landmark regional engagement.

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, praised Governor Otti’s security achievements, describing Abia as one of the safest and most peaceful states in the region under his administration. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, equally acknowledged Governor Otti’s focused leadership and commitment to restoring lasting peace.

Former Chief of Army Staff, General Azubuike Ihejirika (Rtd.), in his keynote address, advocated stronger collaboration between communities and security agencies, stressing that intelligence gathering remains critical to defeating criminality across the region.

The South East Regional Security Summit comes barely days after Governor Alex Otti’s historic visit to Umunneochi Local Government Area, where thousands of residents warmly received him during a civic engagement that further reinforced his administration’s people-centered approach and commitment to inclusive governance and equitable development.

The people of Umunneochi have continued to express profound appreciation to Governor Otti for personally identifying with them, listening to their aspirations and assuring them that the dividends of good governance would reach every community without discrimination. His assurances of pragmatic, people-oriented development have further strengthened public confidence in his administration’s vision of building a New Abia where no community is left behind.

As the momentum generated by both the summit and the Umunneochi homecoming continues to resonate across the region, many residents are optimistic that respected leaders, including Ambassador Dr. Osita Offor, will continue to champion the message of peace, unity, community participation and collective responsibility in securing the South East for future generations.

OHAFIATV will continue to monitor developments and bring readers further details on Ambassador Dr. Osita Offor’s commendation as conversations on regional security and sustainable development continue.