Governor highlights security, infrastructure strides at ISCA convention in Atlanta
Governor Hope Uzodimma has assured Imo State indigenes resident in the United States that the state is now safe, secure, and increasingly open to investment, in contrast to the security challenges that marked the early years of his administration.
Speaking through the State Commissioner for Information, Public Orientation and Strategy, Declan Emelumba, at the annual convention of the Imo State Congress in America (ISCA) held in Atlanta, Georgia, the governor outlined the strategic interventions implemented in collaboration with the Federal Government to stabilise the state.
According to Emelumba, Governor Uzodimma has prioritised security by providing logistics support to conventional security agencies and establishing well-funded community-based vigilante groups across all localities in the state. These initiatives, he said, have resulted in a notable return to peace, economic activities, and nightlife—especially in urban centres such as Owerri.
“Today, Imo State enjoys relative peace, and our hospitality sector is bouncing back with vibrant nightlife. This wasn’t the case when the current administration took over,” the governor affirmed.
In addition to security, Uzodimma highlighted his administration’s commitment to building resilient infrastructure and modern public utilities. He disclosed that efforts were underway to ensure 24-hour electricity supply in all 27 local government areas of the state, aimed at enhancing safety through urban illumination and generating employment opportunities for the youth.
Addressing concerns often raised by members of the diaspora, the governor encouraged Imo citizens living abroad to visit home without apprehension. He assured them that the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri was now fully equipped to accommodate direct flights, facilitating seamless travel.
On infrastructure, the governor listed landmark road projects such as the Owerri-Okigwe Road, Owerri-Orlu Road, and Owerri-Umuahia Road, as well as the completed Assumpta Flyover and the Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Conference Centre, as evidence of his administration’s resolve to rebuild the state.
In the health and education sectors, the administration has also undertaken substantial reforms and development projects aimed at enhancing service delivery.
Governor Uzodimma also shared his participation at a recent United Nations Global Compact event in Spain, where he presented the OKOBI economic model—a homegrown initiative encouraging kindred groups in Imo to establish and run businesses with state support. He noted that over 40,000 youths have already been trained in digital skills under this initiative, with a target of reaching 300,000 to substantially reduce unemployment.
“Imo is on the path of renewal, and investors are responding positively. Our goal is to leave a legacy of growth, prosperity, and pride for future generations,” the governor stated.
In his remarks, Attorney Charles Onyirimba, a participant at the convention, acknowledged noticeable improvements in the state’s security environment.
The President of ISCA, Frank Ekeigwe, lauded Governor Uzodimma’s administration for prompt salary and pension payments, infrastructure development, and a proactive response to the state’s security concerns. He noted that these reforms have positively impacted the lives of Imo citizens, both at home and abroad.
