Renowned activist, Prince Maduba Chukwudi Francis, popularly known as OluImo, has called on the Executive Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodinma, to shift his focus from the ongoing construction of the Government House Annex in Orlu to industrialization initiatives that will tackle the high unemployment rate in the state. OluImo emphasized that the state’s limited resources could be better utilized to create sustainable economic growth through industries and state-owned companies rather than investing in symbolic government infrastructure.
The call came after OluImo’s visit to the site of the ongoing Government House Annex project in Orlu, where he expressed concerns over the potential long-term impact of such a project. While acknowledging the project’s intended symbolism and future value, particularly in the context of state expansion involving both Imo and Anambra states, he stressed that it is essential for the state to prioritize the creation of economic opportunities that directly benefit the people.
OluImo recognized the Governor’s efforts in building standard projects, but he urged Governor Uzodinma to reconsider allocating state resources to unproductive ventures. He proposed that instead of continuing with the Government House Annex, the funds should be directed toward establishing industries, factories, and even a state-owned modular refinery. According to him, such projects would go a long way in addressing the economic challenges faced by the state, particularly the high unemployment rate.
He further argued that the multimillion-naira cost of the Government House Annex could be better spent on setting up three mega-companies within the state. These companies, he claimed, would act as catalysts for economic growth, creating jobs and improving the state’s GDP. OluImo pointed out that focusing on industrialization and wealth creation would provide the state with sustainable economic benefits, unlike symbolic projects that do not directly contribute to the welfare of the people.
“The resources being used for this Government House Annex project could comfortably fund the establishment of three major industries in the state. These industries would be much more beneficial to the people of Imo State, generating jobs and boosting the local economy,” said OluImo.
OluImo’s statement highlights the growing concern among many Imo State residents and activists about the lack of concrete steps toward addressing the state’s economic challenges. Unemployment remains a major issue, especially among the youth, and the need for government investment in productive ventures has never been more urgent.
In conclusion, OluImo’s call to Governor Uzodinma is clear: the state must prioritize industrialization, job creation, and wealth generation over the construction of symbolic government buildings. By investing in industries and businesses, the state could see long-term benefits, including reduced unemployment and improved economic stability for its people. The challenge for the Governor and the government lies in making decisions that will have lasting, positive effects on the future of Imo State.
