Uzodimma highlights major infrastructure development of his 18-month administration

Gov. Hope Uzodimma of Imo has highlighted his major achievements in infrastructure development across the state in the past 18 months of his second tenure.

Uzodimma gave his score card in an address entitled, “Our New Imo is here”, delivered to members of the state House of Assembly and Imo stakeholders at the Assembly complex in Owerri on Tuesday.

He said the state boasts of an expansive and impactful road network, with over 120 roads completed statewide.

“In the past 18 months alone, we delivered 37 brand new roads, an iconic edifice – the International Conference Center – and a befitting Government Housing Annex, Orlu.

“We also have the Assumpta Flyover and new Concorde-Hilton Hotel as landmark legacy projects,” he said.

He also said that several projects, including the Owerri–Mbaise–Obowo–Umuahia Road, the Assumpta Flyover, the International Conference Center and the Government House Annex, Orlu – are scheduled for inauguration by President Bola Tinubu later in August.

He further highlighted substantial progress made in the education sector, with 305 primary schools rehabilitated and improved conditions for teachers.

Uzodimma said that the Imo State University, Owerri, and other tertiary institutions now had full accreditation, ensuring quality education.

“To further motivate teachers and ensure retention, Imo became the first state in the South-East to extend the retirement age for teachers from 60 to 65.

“The result of these reforms is evident – Imo students now consistently rank among the best in national exams – NECO, WAEC, and JAMB alike,” he said.

He commended Tinubu for signing the bill establishing the Federal University, Okigwe, into law, as well as approving a take-off grant of N39 billion for the university.

In healthcare, the governor said that Imo State University Teaching Hospital had been restored and modernised, while 305 primary healthcare centres had been rehabilitated, expanding access to essential services.

“To further bridge access gaps in healthcare, we introduced mobile clinics in hard-to-reach areas, providing medicare at no cost to underserved rural populations.

“We have also rehabilitated and equipped general hospitals in select Local Government Areas (LGAs), which now serve as referral centres for the ward-level clinics.

“Our plan is to have at least one functional and well equipped general hospital in each of the 27 LGAs,” he said.

The governor said the state was gradually regaining its title as the ‘Hospitality Capital’ of the South-East, following improved security in the state.

Uzodimma also listed his government’s achievements in sports, with Imo athletes winning 85 medals at national and regional events.

He said the state had committed resources to sports infrastructure and coaching programmes, fostering youth engagement.

“Our athletes have represented Imo at multiple national and regional events, bringing honour,” he said.

He said the ongoing dredging of the 160-kilometre Orashi River was aimed to create a new economic artery within 24 months, boosting trade and industrialisation for Imo and the South-East.

“This project holds the key to an industrial revolution in our state,” Uzodimma said.

He further said that Owerri’s reputation as Nigeria’s cleanest city was being restored through flood control measures, using balloon technology.

In agriculture, he said that Adapalm Nigeria Limited had been resuscitated, creating jobs and boosting the local economy, while the state had also partnered with Janpur Group to revive the Acharubo Farm Settlement for livestock production and establish a fertiliser plant.

The governor also acknowledged weaknesses in the judiciary, pledging to work with stakeholders to restore integrity and public trust.

“Recent events in our judiciary have exposed weaknesses and shaken public trust.

“The goal is to restore its dignity and public trust through systemic corrections.

The governor, who commended the people of the state for their cooperation and support over the years, expressed optimism about the future of the state.