President Muhammadu Buhari has promised to encourage the Imo state government to do more in providing infrastructure and another dividends of democracy “within the ambits of the constitution.”
Buhari said this on Thursday during the inauguration of some projects in Imo state.
He said the state governor, Hope Uzodimma, shared the same vision with him on infrastructure development.
“I had seen enough that justifies his integrity in making sure that he is working very hard to make sure you get the structure necessary,” Buhari said.
“I’m very impressed by what he had done because I have gone through the same problem at the centre to make sure that infrastructure is what will enable the people to mind their own businesses.
“If there are no roads, no security, what can people do? Absolutely nothing. I’m very pleased that by some fabulous coincidence my idea and that of your governor coincided.
“I’m very pleased with what I’m seeing and I assure you that at the centre I will try to encourage Imo state within the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
Earlier, Uzodimma said his aim is to build a “mini Nigeria” in the state, where everyone will have a sense of belonging and unfettered accommodation.
“Our commitment to the peace and unity of Nigeria is irrevocable, through our inclusive government, we have accommodated every Nigerian resident in Imo State,” Uzodimma said.
“Some have been appointed directly into my cabinet, others are making input into governance. Our aim is to build a mini Nigeria in Imo state, where everyone will have a sense of not only belonging but unfettered accommodation.”
Buhari arrived Owerri, Imo State capital, for a one-day working visit, despite the threat issues by the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
IPOB, a secessionist group, has in recent times been responsible for insecurity in the South East. The group had killed members of security forces and burnt several federal government properties in the region. It has also imposed sit-at-home order in the entire Southeast region prior to the president’s visit.
The president, dressed in the Isi Agu Igbo native attire arrived Sam Mbakwe Airport at about 9:30am, and welcomed by the state Governor, Hope Uzodinma and some of the elders in the state.
There was also a heavy security presence at the airport and the entire state capital, as streets were deserted and shops closed.
The governor had earlier announced that the President would inaugurate roads constructed through federal government/World Bank intervention and Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management (NEWMAP) projects.
On Wednesday, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Youth wing, through its Deputy National Leader, Onwuasoanya Jones, directed Igbo youths to mobilise themselves to welcome the President.
The group said the president’s visit would provide an opportunity for Igbo leaders and groups to directly engage the president on how to solve their grievances.