From Everest Ezihe, Owerri
The Founder/President of the Igbo Council of Elders UK (ICE), Hon. Ejike Ikezuagu, has applauded the Shared Prosperity and 3R administrative mantra of Governor Hope Uzodimma for the tremendous improvement of security of lives and properties as well as infrastructural developments and transformations in Imo State.
Ikezuagu stated this while addressing newsmen recently in Owerri, on the state of infrastructural developments and transformations in the State as well as the need to create a diaspora offices to support the State government developmental efforts and initiatives.
He reiterated on the need to strengthen and sustain the developmental trends of the State through creation of diasporas liaison offices that would attract investors and partners that would support the developmental efforts of the state government.
According to him,”returning from the United Kingdom to Nigeria last Christmas, and arriving in Imo State, I am highly impressed with the remarkable progress achieved under the Shared Prosperity leadership of Governor Hope Uzodimma. His administration has made significant impacts economically, socially, politically, and technologically. Imolites have benefitted enormously from his visionary and purposeful governance.The Imo community in the diaspora, especially in the United Kingdom, is proud of his accomplishments”.
Ikeazuagu also commended the Governor for his administration’s commitment towards prompt payment of salaries to the State civil servants and pension to pensioners.
The Leader further expressed gratitude to the State government for the sustenance of the State’s financial stability and trust in governance as well as an enhanced Security network.
He pointed out that the State is currently enjoying improved safety as her citizens move freely without fear or harassment. “For instance, I traveled regularly from Orlu to Owerri as from 8 pm and arrived safely—an indication of the tight security measures in place”.
The Leader lauded the State government road Infrastructural developments, pointing out that the rehabilitation of major roads across the State.
“Roads linking Owerri to Mbaise and Owerri to Orlu are solidly constructed, reducing travel time and boosting economic activities.
“Energy Initiatives: Gas flaring projects are underway to guarantee 24-hour electricity supply, a transformative step for industrial and domestic growth. World Economic Summit in Owerri.
“The governor late last year successfully hosted a global summit that attracted international institutions, companies, and governments. This initiative has positioned Imo State as an emerging hub for investment and economic development.
“Support for SMEs and Youth Empowerment. Loans are being provided to small and medium enterprises, alongside skills acquisition programs for Imo youths, fostering entrepreneurship and self-reliance. Also, the Scholarship Programs, according to Ikezuagu, “Scholarships awarded to Imo State students highlight the administration’s commitment to education and human capital development.”
To demonstrate the commitments of Imo State born diasporans as patriotic architects of development and transformation, he insisted that, “the Imo diaspora community, especially in the United Kingdom, humbly present the following requests to further strengthen their partnership with the State Government:
“Diaspora Housing Scheme. We urge the government to establish mortgage-induced housing projects for diaspora residents. This will provide us with a home base in Imo State, enabling us to contribute more effectively to the state’s economic development.”
“Establishment of Liaison Offices Abroad. We request the creation of liaison offices in the UK, Europe, and North America to attract investors and facilitate stronger ties between Imo professionals abroad and the state. We believe that Governor Hope Uzodimma has the vision and capacity to actualize these requests, thereby deepening the bond between Imo State and its diaspora community,” he concluded.
