The Abia State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening collaboration with security agencies to strengthen security architecture in the state.
This is as the government and security agencies in the state agreed to forge stronger partnership to engage and sustain practical measures for stronger communication, coordination and public confidence in the security.
Okey Kanu, commissioner for Information, Abia State, while hosting public relations and communication officers of security agencies in the state, noted that the collaboration between the government and security agencies in the state will strengthen information sharing, improve public enlightenment and enhance security communication.
He said that the visit of the officers marked an important step towards building a stronger working relationship between the state government and the communication officers of the various security agencies. ‘There is every need for the state government to collaborate with the security agencies. Security is the bedrock on which society thrives,’ he said.
The commissioner noted that the Governor Alex Otti-led administration places high premium on security, stressing that the government’s investments in the sector had contributed significantly to the peaceful atmosphere and development being witnessed across the state.
‘You can spend all the money in the world. If you don’t have security, nothing really moves.’
Kanu explained that the protection of lives and property, which is a fundamental responsibility of the government, could only be effectively achieved in an environment where security is guaranteed.
He also highlighted the strategic role of security spokespersons in providing accurate, timely and responsible information to the public, particularly at a time when misinformation and disinformation can affect public confidence and security.
The commissioner explained that the proposed collaboration will provide a platform for better coordination and unified communication among the government and security agencies.
‘It is not enough to just visit. The important thing is what we make out of this visit going forward,’ he stated, adding that the ministry would engage further with the security communication officers to examine their proposals and develop practical recommendations that could be presented to Governor Otti.
Kanu noted that the government will continue to consolidate on its security achievements, through stronger partnerships with relevant stakeholders.
He noted that the recent South-East Security Summit hosted in Abia underscored the importance attached to security by the Otti administration and the need for continued collaboration among stakeholders.
Chris Onwuegbu, permanent secretary, Ministry of Information, while welcoming the delegation, assured them of the ministry’s readiness and availability to work closely with the security agencies.
He affirmed that stronger collaboration between the government and security communication officers, would promote effective information dissemination and improve public understanding of security issues across the state.
Linus Kalu Ikpe, leader of the delegation and Public Relations Officer of the Nigerian Correctional Service, commended the Abia State Government for its developmental strides and efforts towards strengthening communication, transparency and public trust in governance.
Ikpe said that the delegation’s visit was primarily to seek stronger collaboration with the state government, particularly in the area of security communication.
He said that the team of security spokespersons was committed to promoting accurate, timely and responsible information management across the state.
According to him, communication officers occupy a critical position in today’s security environment, stressing that greater synergy among them would enhance effectiveness, particularly as the election period approaches.
He proposed measures that would strengthen information sharing, enhance coordination and improve public confidence and safety through consistent and unified efforts.
He expressed appreciation to the state government and the commissioner for their continued support and expressed optimism that the proposed partnership would produce positive results.