The Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, on Monday, presented the 2025 budget, valued at ₦755.6 billion, to the Imo State House of Assembly. Dubbed the “Budget of Expanded Economic Opportunities,” the proposal underscores the administration’s focus on driving sustainable development and economic growth.
During the presentation, Governor Uzodimma highlighted his administration’s achievements over the past five years, emphasizing his commitment to the Shared Prosperity mandate. The budget reflects the governor’s ambitious plans to overhaul critical infrastructure, improve education, and boost industrial and agricultural productivity across the state.
A major highlight of the budget is the extensive rehabilitation of rural roads across Imo’s three senatorial zones. Governor Uzodimma also reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to providing 24/7 electricity through the Imo State Electricity Distribution (ISED) project.
The governor announced plans to dredge the Oguta Lake and Orashi River, aiming to connect them to the Atlantic Ocean, a move expected to enhance economic opportunities in the region. On education, Uzodimma disclosed that public schools would be handed over to religious institutions in 2025 to ensure better management and improved educational standards.
In agriculture, the Achara Ugbu Farmland in Owerri North is set to undergo large-scale development to strengthen food security. Ministries responsible for agriculture and livestock will receive funding between ₦20 billion and ₦30 billion to support their initiatives, while the AdaPalm project will be reinvigorated to boost palm oil production.
The budget also emphasizes modernization, with plans to revitalize key markets like Eke Ukwu Owerri and industrial hubs in Onitsha, Orlu, and Okigwe. New housing layouts and partnerships with developers are also on the agenda to address the housing needs of the state’s growing population.
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Governor Uzodimma further outlined efforts to position Imo State as the technology hub of the Southeast, leveraging digital innovation for economic growth. He announced plans to provide residents with improved access to quality water and ensure that the Ohaji/Egbema Gas Plant supplies cooking gas for both domestic and industrial purposes.
The administration also aims to foster peace and reconciliation through initiatives like a robust dispute resolution program and granting amnesty to repentant offenders. To combat insecurity, Uzodimma issued a stern warning to its sponsors, pledging to strengthen law enforcement for lasting peace.
On infrastructure, the Owerri-Umuahia Road is slated for completion by the first quarter of 2025, while the dredging of the Orashi River and Oguta Lake remains a priority. The governor also reiterated his commitment to pensioners, revealing that his administration has cleared over 60% of the state’s 20-year pension arrears.
Youth empowerment and sports development feature prominently in the budget, with Emmanuel Amuneke appointed to lead the state’s sports initiatives.
Governor Uzodimma described the 2025 budget as a comprehensive plan to transform Imo State into a hub of prosperity and innovation. With its bold initiatives and strategic investments, the “Budget of Expanded Economic Opportunities” sets the stage for an era of unprecedented growth.
