Vice President Kashim Shettima has described the administration of Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, as one that has reshaped leadership in the state by promoting engagement, inclusion, and dialogue.
Speaking at the grand finale of activities marking the 50th anniversary of the creation of Imo State, the Vice President said the state has recorded notable achievements and continues to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s political and socio-economic development.
Imo State was created on February 3, 1976, during the military administration of the late General Murtala Mohammed, and is widely referred to as the Eastern Heartland of the South-East.
To mark the golden jubilee, political leaders, traditional rulers, captains of industry, and other stakeholders from within and outside the state gathered to celebrate five decades of growth, resilience, and unity.
Vice President Shettima noted that Imo State holds a strategic place in Nigeria’s history, having produced leaders who have played significant roles in shaping national policies and institutions.
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Governor Hope Uzodimma, while highlighting achievements recorded by his administration, urged political actors and stakeholders to embrace politics as a platform for development, peace, and collective progress, rather than personal or sectional interests.
Chairman of the occasion and former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Emeka Anyaoku, used the event to call on the Nigerian Senate to demonstrate patriotism in the passage of the amended Electoral Bill, stressing that credible elections remain central to the survival of democracy.
The anniversary celebration also featured the conferment of honours on distinguished personalities, both living and deceased, who have served Imo State since its creation, as well as individuals recognised for outstanding contributions in their respective fields.
(Editor: Ada Ononye)
