Abia State yesterday played host to security chiefs, federal officials and governors from across the South East as it convened the maiden _South East Regional Security Summit 2026_ at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia.
The summit, themed _“Collaborative Approaches to Strengthening Security and Regional Stability,”_ brought together stakeholders to fashion a united front against insecurity in the zone.
In his remarks, Abia State Governor, *Dr. Alex Otti*, reaffirmed his administration’s “unwavering commitment to peace and security across the South East,” noting that security remains the foundation for prosperity.
“Security is the foundation of prosperity, and the summit could not have come at a better time,” the Governor said.
The event had in attendance the *Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd.)*, who represented the Federal Government. Governor Otti expressed appreciation to *President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR*, for his goodwill message and “remarkable contributions to South East regional security.” He also thanked the Federal Ministry of Defence and the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (South East) for partnering with Abia to make the summit a reality.
Dignitaries present included representatives of the Governors of Enugu, Imo, Anambra and Ebonyi States; the representative of the Senate President, *Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua*; Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, *Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu*; Minister of Information and National Orientation, *Alhaji Mohammed Idris*; Chairman of the Abia State Security Advisory Council, *Lt. Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika (Rtd.)*; *Maj. Gen. Ike Nwachukwu (Rtd.)*; *Justice Mary Odili (Rtd.)*; as well as members of the Armed Forces and the broader security community.
Special recognition was given to the *Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke*, whose leadership, the Governor said, “remains invaluable to safeguarding our skies and national security.”
Governor Otti said the convergence of leaders underscored one clear message:
“Lasting peace and security in the South East demand collaboration, intelligence sharing, and a common resolve. Together, we will continue to make crime unprofitable, strengthen our institutions, and build a safer, more prosperous region for all.”
The summit is expected to birth a regional security framework to enhance intelligence gathering, joint operations, and community engagement across the five South East states.
All images in this story: Credit to ABSG
