Hope Uzodimma Unveils N1 Trillion Economic Agenda for Imo State

Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma has launched an ambitious economic initiative aimed at creating a N1 trillion economy in the region. This announcement coincides with plans for the Global Economic Summit and Tourism Revival Projects, scheduled for December 4-5, 2025, in Owerri. The summit aims to position Imo State as a key player on both national and international stages, featuring prominent leaders including the former Secretary-General of the United Nations and the immediate past Prime Minister of Britain, Boris Johnson, alongside President Bola Tinubu and several African heads of state.

During a recent address in Owerri, following the Feast of Christ the King, Uzodimma emphasized the significance of the economic and cultural initiatives. He stated that the summit will include a World Investment and Economic Summit, which he hopes will attract global attention and investment to Imo State. “It is a thing of joy, we want to announce Imo State to the world,” he said.

Addressing Infrastructure Challenges

Uzodimma also highlighted ongoing challenges related to the Light Up Imo Project, which aims to enhance the state’s electricity infrastructure. He warned individuals obstructing the project that their actions would not deter his government from connecting the state’s power infrastructure to the national grid. “We cannot spend billions on power infrastructure and fail to distribute electricity to our people,” he stated, promising decisive action within the week.

The Governor expressed gratitude for public support, urging unity among citizens. He remarked, “When we eat and work together, our blessings come faster,” underscoring the importance of collective progress for the state’s development.

Uzodimma also announced the upcoming Ahiajoku Lecture Series, set to take place between November 27-28, 2025. This event is meant to celebrate the cultural legacy of former Governor Sam Mbakwe and is viewed as a vital component of Imo State’s tourism economy. He described the festival as a key tourist indicator and called for public participation in its rehabilitation and promotion.

Rebuilding the Public Sector

In addressing the state’s future, Uzodimma acknowledged the historical issues of insecurity and political interference that have hindered progress. He criticized those responsible for vandalizing public property, including a recent incident involving a government-built roundabout, stating, “Government property is not anybody’s property.” He urged citizens to adopt responsible behavior as part of contributing to the state’s success.

The Governor elaborated on efforts to revitalize Imo’s public sector, emphasizing that sustainable prosperity hinges on functional public schools, hospitals, and infrastructure. He pointed out that increased wages cannot offset the high costs of private healthcare and education, making government services essential for affordability. “If our schools and hospitals work, a civil servant can run a household comfortably,” he explained.

Uzodimma reaffirmed his commitment to overcoming federal-level political obstacles that may impede the state’s efforts to connect completed power infrastructure to the grid. He called upon residents to prioritize collective interests over personal or political differences, urging them to unite for the betterment of Imo State.