WorldStage Newsonline– The Imo State governor, Sen. Hope Uzodimma has pledged to fast-track development projects across the state in 2025.
Uzodimma, who made the pledge on Wednesday in his new year message to the people, said several legacy projects initiated in 2024 would be completed.
The governor said that with the planned industrialisation of the state and the level of infrastructural development already achieved by his administration, “Imo will experience economic boom this year.”
He urged the people to reaffirm their hope in a better tomorrow, saying “Nigerians will emerge stronger from the current economic challenges, if they have faith in God.”
According to him, with a faithful implementation of the 2025 budget of N807 billion, we would have set Imo on an irreversible path of sustainable development.
He described the budget as “a clear statement of my determination to vigorously pursue the industrialisation of the state by strengthening our infrastructure.”
The governor listed some of his legacy projects started in 2024 to include: Assumpta flyover, the Owerri-Umuahia road, the construction/rehabilitation of power plants, the Imo Concorde Hilton Hotel, and the Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Conference Centre.
“Equally, the Orashi Free Trade Zone and other ancillary projects, such as the dredging of the Oguta/Orashi rivers to the Atlantic, will be expedited to attract foreign and domestic investors,” he noted.
He expressed confidence that the newly democratised local government areas would also assist the communities in achieving rapid growth.
The governor assured civil servants and pensioners in the state of sustainable payment of salaries and pensions and gratuities to make life more meaningful for them.
He urged members of his executive cabinet to redouble efforts to ensuring that Imo people received first class service this year.
“This year, 2025, is a defining year for all of us to prove our mettle in serving the people of Imo.
“Laxity and corruption will not be tolerated.
“Let it be clear that those called to serve Imo in my administration must either serve with dignity and integrity or face the consequences,” he noted.
The governor, who noted that the state was relatively calm and secure in 2024, also commended the security agencies for their sacrifices and proactive responses to security challenges.
“I also appreciate members and leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria for their relentless prayers for peace in our state.
“To those who promote insecurity and social tension in the state, I urge you once again to repent and embrace peace.
“Take advantage of this new year to make peace with God and your conscience.
“If you persist, the long arm of the law will catch up with you, and you will be held accountable for your evil deeds,” he warned.
Uzodimma expressed confidence that with the provision of essential infrastructure and conducive business environment, more job opportunities would be created for the people of the state.
He further urged the people to exercise patience with the Federal Government to “reap the full benefits of President Bola Tinubu’s reforms.”
