The South East Development Commission (SEDC) Board, led by its Chairman, Dr. Emeka Wogu, CON, paid a working courtesy visit to the Executive Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Odidika Uzodimma.
This engagement aimed at fostering synergy between the Commission and Imo State Government to accelerate development in the South East region.
Chairman of South East Development Commisssion (SEDC) Dr. Emeka Wogu, CON In his opening remarks, acknowledged Governor Uzodimma’s giant strides in governance, particularly in infrastructure, security, industrialization and urban renewal. He commended the Governor’s commitment to rebuilding and repositioning Imo State and noted that his administration’s projects align perfectly with the mandate of the SEDC.
Wogu highlighted road construction & rehabilitation, including the dualization of Owerri-Orlu and Owerri-Okigwe roads, enhancing connectivity, Urban Renewal Initiatives such as the Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Conference Centre and the new Imo State House of Assembly complex.
Healthcare Infrastructure with 305 Primary Healthcare Centers established across the state, Education & Industrialization, the conversion of Alvan Ikoku College of Education into a Federal University of Education and the University of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences in Umuagwo.
Economic Growth & Free Trade Zone, including the Orashi Free Trade Zone project to drive industrialization.
He reaffirmed that the SEDC was not created to compete with state governments but rather to will play complementary role with Imo state in the drive for development as SEDC is focused on addressing key developmental gaps in the region.
On his part, The Managing Director/CEO of SEDC, Hon. Mark Okoye, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to regional transformation, Infrastructure Development, Economic Growth & Industrialization, Power & Energy; Security & Stability in the region.
He reassured Governor Uzodimma that the SEDC would remain transparent, accountable and focused on delivering measurable progress.
Governor Hope Uzodimma, in his welcome address, thanked the SEDC delegation, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT) for actualizing the South East Development Commission.
He described the Commission as a long-overdue initiative that provides a strategic platform for advancing the region.
The Governor reminded the SEDC that its role is to fill development gaps, not duplicate state efforts.
“SEDC and state governments are partners, not rivals”, He emphasized cohesion and teamwork as essential for success.
Governor Uzodimma advised that while some projects must be commercially viable, others can be socially impactful to benefit the people. “You must be vigilant, prudent, and focused on value addition” , He stressed that real success will be measured by the visible impact on people’s lives.
“Infrastructure, security, and power are key”, The Governor called for strong investment in roads, energy and security, which are fundamental to economic survival. “You have an intelligent MD, but results matter”, Governor Uzodinma encouraged the SEDC to execute impactful projects that will earn the trust and recognition of the people.
Governor Uzodimma assured the SEDC of Imo State’s full cooperation, urging them to engage deeply with state governments to maximize developmental impact.
This high-level engagement underscores a new era of coordinated development, ensuring that the South East remains a thriving hub of infrastructure, industrialization and economic prosperity.
