As Imo State marks its 50th anniversary, Governor Hope Uzodimma has expressed his commitment to leaving behind a legacy of prosperity, defined by industrial growth, digital innovation, and a reliable power supply. Speaking during the grand finale of the state’s golden jubilee celebrations in Owerri, the Governor reflected on the progress made during his six-year tenure, noting that the state is now firmly positioned on a path of sustainable economic development.
The event, which drew a massive crowd to the state capital, was attended by high-profile guests including Vice President Kashim Shettima, several state governors, members of the National Assembly, and traditional rulers from across the country. Uzodimma emphasized that the 25-year strategic plan launched last year is specifically tailored to transform Imo into a leading industrial and digital hub within the African continent. He assured the people that his administration is approaching the future with a renewed sense of economic vigor to ensure the breakthroughs he promised are fully realized.
While celebrating current achievements, the Governor took a moment to acknowledge the foundation laid by his predecessors. He noted that every administration since the state’s creation in 1976 has contributed to the “Imo Project,” adding that history would ultimately be the fair judge of each leader’s individual legacy.
On the physical development front, the administration’s record is quite extensive. The Governor highlighted the construction of over 130 roads and the significant upgrade of the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport to meet international standards. Beyond transport, the state has expanded its healthcare reach through a comprehensive insurance scheme and recently commissioned the Orashi Power Project. This power initiative is seen as a critical step toward ending the state’s long-standing reliance on generators and fueling a more productive local economy.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, in his remarks, described Uzodimma as a “game-changing revolutionary” in the state’s modern history. He praised the Governor for treating governance as a duty rather than a performance, pointing to the state’s strides in agriculture, technology, and the creative arts. Shettima noted that Imo’s human capital remains one of its most strategic assets and urged the people to use this jubilee as a springboard for further innovation and unity over the next 50 years.
Further accolades came from the Chairman of the occasion and former Commonwealth Secretary-General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, who tagged Uzodimma the “Infrastructure Governor.” Anyaoku remarked that the title was well-earned due to visible investments in transport, finance, and agriculture. Similarly, Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji commended the Orashi Power Project in particular, noting that solving the electricity challenge is the most direct way to create jobs and boost the productivity of the people.
