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Prof. Iwu, Ekeh, Others Eye Imo’s Development Via IEDI
Prof. Maurice Iwu, former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC); Leo Stan Ekeh, serial digital entrepreneur and Chairman, Zinox Group; Senator Chris Anyanwu and a host of other prominent sons and daughters of Imo State have expressed their determination to see Imo State enjoy an unprecedented level of socio-economic development commensurate with the immense potential and human capital resources at its disposal.
They made this call recently at the launch of the Imo Economic Development Initiative (IEDI) – a landmark private initiative set up to boost human capacity development, wealth creation and poverty alleviation in the state.
The high-profile event also witnessed the commissioning of the IEDI office located in Owerri.
In his speech at the event, Chairman of IEDI, Prof. Iwu disclosed that, in addition to the need to address the development challenges of Imo State, the driving force behind the establishment of IEDI was to stir aright the socio-economic affairs of the state in order to complement the efforts of past, present and future governments of the state.
“While each government administration, past or present has put in some efforts to improve the condition of the state, and amidst the clamour for political power, it has become apparent that our beloved state would benefit from citizens’ involvement and private sector engagement, to see Imo progress to a level that is a true reflection of the enormous talents, intellectual and material resources of its sons and daughters at home and in the Diaspora.”
According to him, a deliberate well-thought out plan of strategies to accomplish the goals are being addressed in the areas of agriculture, urban renewal of the three major cities in the state, rural vitalization, health, energy, education and security.
“Imo sons and daughters have excelled in many fields of human endeavour but there appears to be no nexus between the acclaimed individual educational and business accomplishments and our ability to develop our state or to produce and effective and responsive governance structure. The challenge facing us now is to development of Imo economy to reduce poverty and unemployment, create wealth and improve the internally generated revenue of the state.
“We are greatly encouraged by the progress members of IEDI have made in areas such as agriculture, infrastructure, projects on skills acquisition and exploring Federal resources in energy, industries reactivation and health care development. Projects in information technology are being articulated by some of our members to prepare our state to participate meaningfully in the IT-driven knowledge economy. We are in contact with our brethren in neighbouring states and our members have indeed facilitated the establishment of corporate joint-ventures with like minds.
“The IEDI plans to hold an economic investment summit early in 2018 in partnership with the government of Imo State to highlight the low-hanging fruits projects for investors and entrepreneurs, articulate an economic development blueprint that will accommodate short-term, medium-term and long-term goals of the state and how to accomplish them.”
Also speaking at the event, Chairman, Zinox Group, Ekeh, who highlighted the important role ICT can play in rewriting the history of Imo State, also harped on the importance of a conducive and responsible political climate in the state as a necessary condition to attract prospective investors.
“Through ICT, Imo State has the potential of becoming a conveyor belt of globally-certified talents that will create sustainable wealth, not only for the state but for Nigeria and the African continent at large. ICT remains the only profession in the world today that can make the son of a poor man the richest man in the world.
“By making significant investments in this area, we can unleash the power of the youths, give them a level playing ground with their contemporaries in other parts of the world and make them global citizens. I assure you, the effects will transform the state and change the narrative for good. Sadly, the governments and even those at the centre seem not to realize the huge potential in this area.
“I must also point out the need for us to ensure that we contribute in ensuring we get our political governance structure correct and responsible to the development needs of the state. This is because investors calculate political risks before making investment decisions and only a stupid investor will want to put his money in a state where the political system will negatively affect his investment,” he counseled.
While expressing agreement with Ekeh, Prof. Iwu noted that though non-partisan, the IEDI will show an active interest in the governance of the state, going forward.
“Our prime focus remains the economic development of our state through private sector funding and leveraging on available Federal and State Government resources. But we are keen stakeholders in the affairs of Imo State, including how it is governed,” he concluded.
Among the dignitaries and well-meaning citizens of the state in attendance at the high-profile event were renowned technocrat, doyen of Corporate Nigeria and founder of Diamond Bank PLC, Dr. Pascal Dozie; Chairman, National Population Commission, Mr. Eze Duruiheoma (SAN); former President, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Rtd. Major General Sebastian Onwuama; industrialist and past President, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Engr. Charles Ugwu; Pioneer Vice-Chancellor, Michael Opara University of Agriculture, Prof. Placid Njoku; former Vice Chancellor, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Prof. Jude Njoku; astute politician and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress in Imo State, Chief Jerry Chukwueke; former PDP Deputy Chairman, Imo State, Chief Cosmos Iwu; former Nigerian Ambassador to Hungary, Chief Eddy Onuoha; Chairman, First Index Group and former member, Federal House of Reps, Chief ThankGodEzeani and media consultant, scholar and frontline Nigerian journalist, Chief Amanze Obi.
Others include Chief Cyril Amako, Dr. Vin Udokwu, Chief Louis Ezeigwe, Dr. Chinedu Iwu, Chief Patrick Okereke, Chief G.G. Iheka, Chief Charles Onyirimba, Mr. Uchenna Iwu, Engr. John ObinnaChukwu; Dr. Bola Njoku, Mr. IfeanyiAgwu, Dr. Mrs. ChukwuNgozichukwu; Dr. Harold Onunmuo, Chuka Gabriel, Mr.& Mrs. Wilson Nwafor, Ifeanyi Ukaigwe, Steve Nwoga, Barr. Golden Nwosu,TimothyIheamatu, Mr. & Mrs. Emeka Agoawike and Chidi Nkpobara, among others.
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News
Widows, Wives and More than 2,000 Residents of Ikeja Police Barracks Benefit from YP4T’s Initiative
More than 2,000 individuals from the Ikeja Police Barracks community benefited from an impactful outreach program spearheaded by Young Professionals for Tinubu (YP4T), an advocacy and support group working in alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The initiative provided critical medical services, care packages, food supplies, and financial assistance to widows, wives, and vulnerable residents, demonstrating the heart of nation-building through community-centered support.
The program, which united healthcare professionals, community organizers, and volunteers, complemented the government’s broader efforts to bring essential services closer to the people.
Residents of the Ikeja Police Barracks received free medical consultations, blood pressure and diabetes screenings, and wellness advice. Widows and families also left with care packages filled with food items, toiletries, and financial support to help alleviate the pressures of the holiday season.
Dr. Love V. Tinuoye, CEO of Medvita Consultancy and the lead doctor on-site, reflected on the impact:
“This initiative reflects a collective commitment to advancing healthcare in Nigeria. We were able to screen for and address critical health issues such as hypertension and diabetes while also providing preventive care like vaccinations and cancer screenings. This is what true community-focused care looks like.”
Beyond medical services, the outreach distributed care packages containing food staples, toiletries, and financial support, designed to alleviate the challenges faced by vulnerable members of the police barracks community.
The event highlights the ongoing efforts under the Renewed Hope Agenda to provide inclusive support for Nigerians across the country. Initiatives like this not only extend access to essential services but also strengthen the fabric of communities.
Mrs. Jumoke Elom, a businesswoman and beneficiary, shared her gratitude:
“I am deeply grateful for this program. The care my family received today—both medical and material—has given us hope and reminded us that we are not alone. It shows that there is real support for families like mine.”
The outreach program was also a platform for demonstrating the principles of nation-building through collaborative action. Alex Oware, Security Expert and Director of YP4T, explained the motivation behind the initiative: “The Renewed Hope Agenda is about about bringing real transformation to communities. This initiative embodies that vision by supporting over 2,000 people—not just through tangible resources, but by reaffirming their place in the collective growth of our nation. It lies at the soul of Renewed Hope: fostering resilience and creating opportunities for all Nigerians.”
The outreach program extended beyond healthcare, providing food and financial support to families within the police barracks. A touching moment involved a widow who, after receiving her care package, expressed her gratitude with tears of joy. Her story is just one of many that reflect the transformative power of collective action.
This initiative by YP4T—an advocacy and support group of Nigerian professionals from across the globe—represents a continued commitment to driving grassroots impact, inspired by President Tinubu’s vision. The success of the Ikeja outreach program demonstrates the power of collaboration between the public and private sectors to deliver meaningful change across Nigeria.
News
Matawalle Salutes Nigerian Military, Citizens at Christmas
… Calls for Love and Peaceful Coexistence
The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Mohammad Matawalle, has extended warm greetings to the Nigerian military and all citizens, both Christians and non-Christians, during this joyous Christmas season.
In his message, he emphasized the importance of embodying the spirit of love and peaceful coexistence, urging all Nigerians to reflect on these values not only during the festive period but throughout the year.
“This season serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring principles of peace, unity, love, and sacrifice that bind us as a nation,” he stated.
The Minister encouraged every Nigerian, regardless of their religious beliefs, to celebrate and honor President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, as well as the brave men and women of the Armed Forces who tirelessly demonstrate their patriotism in safeguarding the safety and sovereignty of our beloved country.
Highlighting the significance of the yuletide season, he noted that it should reinforce our bonds of unity, foster a spirit of camaraderie, and inspire compassion towards one another. He called on all citizens to remain steadfast in their collective efforts to build a secure and prosperous Nigeria.
In conclusion, the Minister wished everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Henshaw Ogubike, MNIPR, FCAI, FSCA, FCPE
Director of Information, Press and Public Relations
…Says no government has shown so much support to LGs, State Governments like President Bola Ahmed Tinubu….
The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammad Matawalle, has expressed confidence that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR will significantly enhance the economies of Zamfara State and Nigeria as a whole.
Matawalle who is currently on a five-day visit to his home state, the Minister and former Governor of Zamfara commended President Tinubu for his unprecedented support for Local Government Councils and state governments. “No previous administration has demonstrated such a strong commitment to developing local councils and states as President Tinubu,” Matawalle remarked.
He highlighted the President’s role as a grassroots mobilizer, emphasizing his passion for local development. “President Tinubu has allocated substantial funds to states and local government councils, enabling them to undertake impactful development projects,” he added.
Matawalle urged party supporters to collaborate with their leaders to reclaim the lost mandate from the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Zamfara State. “It is essential for all APC members to remain law-abiding citizens,” he stated, reinforcing the party’s commitment to uphold the law.
Addressing a large gathering of supporters who welcomed him, Matawalle reassured them of the federal government’s ongoing efforts to combat banditry and terrorism in the region. “With the federal government’s initiatives to address security challenges, we will soon experience a renewed sense of safety and peace,” he emphasized.
He concluded his address by urging the community to continue supporting the government at all levels. “Together, we can restore peace and order in our country,” Matawalle affirmed.
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