Owerri (Nigeria): Vice President Kashim Shettima has commended Imo’s exceptional contributions to Nigeria’s political, intellectual, and economic development over the past five decades.
Shettima made the commendation on Saturday during the Golden Jubilee celebration of Imo State, held in Owerri, the state capital.
Describing Imo as an essential contributor to national advancement, the Vice-President lauded its leadership and intellectual achievements as driving forces behind Nigeria’s growth.
Similarly, Shettima applauded Imo’s talents in the creative industry and strength in agriculture, particularly palm oil production, saying the Southeastern state has consistently enriched Nigeria.
In addition, he extended President Bola Tinubu’s goodwill, assuring the state of its front-line seat at the national table.
Shettima went on to praise Gov. Hope Uzodimma, describing him as a game-changing revolutionary in Imo’s modern political history.
He credited the governor with restoring discipline, planning, and institutional strength to the state’s governance.
“Gov. Uzodimma has distinguished himself as more than a custodian of the present. He is a leader who understands that governance is not theatre, but duty.
“Under his watch, Imo has established strategic planning, initiated significant reforms, and raised the state’s national profile, making Imo well-prepared for continued relevance,” he said.
Shettima traced Imo’s legacy of leadership from Dr Kingsley Mbadiwe, whose “flamboyant command of language enriched Nigeria’s political memory.
He highlighted Imo’s intellectual and cultural influence, particularly through Chief Flora Nwapa, whom he described as “the mother of modern African literature, who gave African women a literary voice at a time when silence was expected of them.”
Shettima also celebrated the state’s contributions to Nollywood through actors such as Genevieve Nnaji, Rita Dominic, and Kanayo O. Kanayo.
“As well as music icon, Onyeka Onwenu, who placed the Nigerian sound on the world stage with grace and conviction.”
On economic development, the Vice-President highlighted Imo’s agricultural achievements, specifically its leadership in palm oil production at the renowned Ada Palm Plantation, which has contributed to food security and employment.
He further spoke about the state’s educational infrastructure, including the Federal University of Technology Owerri and Imo State University, and described education as Imo’s greatest industry.
“Literacy rates remain among the highest in the nation, and graduates from Imo compete confidently across every field,” VP Shettima stated.
He highlighted emerging energy opportunities in Imo’s oil and gas sectors (Ohaji-Egbema, Oguta) and emphasised growth in agro-processing, renewable energy, mineral processing, tourism, and digital industries as avenues for economic expansion.
The Vice-President applauded Owerri’s development as a hospitality hotspot, with a notable rise in hotels and entertainment centres that drive local economic growth and tourism.
He encouraged Imo to use its golden jubilee as a catalyst for propelling the state’s leadership and unity well into the future, reinforcing its role in Nigeria’s growth.
Responding, Uzodimma said Imo would continue to grow and embrace digital transformation over the next 50 years, noting that the creation of the state in 1976 enunciated freedom.
The governor thanked God for sustaining the state for 50 years, expressing strong conviction that the future holds great hope for the State.
“We have made significant progress both as a people and as a state. There is no doubt that we are growing fast in unity, resilience and reliance on God.
“We have seen Owerri transform from a town into a hub. What has kept us united is the indomitable spirit of the Imo people,” Uzodimma stated.
On his part, the Chairman of the occasion and former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, commended the hard work of Uzodimma in transforming the state through the execution of various developmental projects.
“His administration has made an impact through improved transportation systems, enhanced financial management, advancements in agriculture, and progress in other critical sectors,” he said.
Uzodimma’s administration has left an admirable legacy in Imo State, making a significant contribution to the wider Nigerian economy,” he said.
Chief Anyaoku prayed for progress in Nigeria’s political evolution, emphasising greater unity, as he said elections constitute a fundamental process of democracy.
The Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe (Agbogidi), expressed gratitude to Imo for shaping his early life.
The traditional ruler praised Governor Uzodinma “for showcasing Imo State to the World.”
The Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, prayed for the sustained unity and progress of Imo State and Nigeria.
