Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma has fiercely defended his frequent trips to Abuja, emphasizing that these journeys are vital for the growth and development of his state. Addressing concerns raised by the Catholic Archbishop of Owerri Ecclesiastical Province, Most Reverend Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, the governor explained that his trips were essential to secure federal support and resources for Imo.
The remarks came during a thanksgiving service marking the first anniversary of Uzodinma’s second term in office at the Maria Assumpta Cathedral in Owerri. The Archbishop, in his address, had urged the governor to focus more on being physically present in the state to ensure effective governance. However, Uzodinma, who is also the Chairman of the APC Governors’ Forum and the South-East Governors’ Forum, responded with a strong defense.
“As the chairman of these forums, my role involves regular engagements in Abuja. Imo State, being an integral part of Nigeria, needs a robust presence at the federal level to access the nation’s resources and opportunities,” Uzodinma said, explaining the necessity of his travels.
He insisted that his visits to the nation’s capital had not detracted from his governance, stating that Imo’s development continued to progress. “I remain committed to improving the lives of Imolites. My trips to Abuja have not hindered the payment of workers’ salaries, nor have they affected our ongoing projects or efforts to tackle insecurity in the state,” Uzodinma declared confidently.
While some critics have questioned the governor’s frequent absences, Uzodinma’s supporters have rallied behind him, citing the tangible results of his strategic engagement with the federal government. Ambrose Nwaogwugwu, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Electronic and Creative Media, highlighted several significant federal interventions that had benefitted Imo under Uzodinma’s leadership.
“Governor Uzodinma has secured unprecedented federal attention for Imo. For example, the transformation of Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education into a Federal University of Education, the elevation of the Federal Medical Centre to a Federal University Teaching Hospital, and the reconstruction of critical roads like the Owerri-Port Harcourt and Owerri-Aba highways. These are monumental achievements,” Nwaogwugwu said.
According to Nwaogwugwu, critics who focus on the governor’s absences overlook the benefits that Imo State has gained from his active participation in national conversations. “It’s not about how often the governor is in the state; it’s about the results of his leadership. His primary goal is to improve the lives of the people of Imo, and that’s exactly what he is doing,” he stated.
The governor’s defense of his trips to Abuja is part of a broader narrative that highlights the need for regional leaders to engage with the federal government to secure the development resources their states need. As many states struggle to meet the needs of their growing populations, federal support is often crucial for the successful implementation of infrastructure projects, educational reforms, and healthcare advancements.
Uzodinma, who assumed office in 2020, has made significant strides in improving Imo State’s infrastructure. The transformation of the educational sector, particularly the establishment of a federal university in Imo, has been hailed as a major milestone. Additionally, the ongoing road constructions and infrastructural projects are aimed at enhancing the state’s economic prospects.
Despite these successes, his frequent absences from the state have sparked concerns among some residents and political analysts, who argue that a governor should be more present in their state to address local issues directly. However, Uzodinma remains steadfast in his belief that his presence in Abuja is a strategic move that ultimately benefits the people of Imo.
“The true measure of leadership is not determined by physical presence but by the impact one’s leadership has on the people. My work in Abuja is yielding positive results for Imo,” Uzodinma said, reinforcing his stance.
Critics, however, remain unconvinced. They argue that while federal support is important, state governance requires a leader to be physically present to address local needs, particularly those related to security, infrastructure, and public services.
The debate over the governor’s presence in the state highlights a broader issue of governance in Nigeria, where the balance between federal engagement and local leadership is often a contentious subject. While some governors choose to stay closer to their states to directly address the concerns of their citizens, others, like Uzodinma, prefer to leverage their positions at the federal level to secure resources and partnerships for their states.
Regardless of the differing opinions, one thing is clear: Imo State has benefitted from an increase in federal attention during Uzodinma’s tenure. The strategic investments in infrastructure, education, and healthcare have significantly improved the quality of life for many Imolites, particularly in urban areas.
Uzodinma’s administration continues to prioritize projects that have a direct impact on the daily lives of citizens. From road reconstructions to health upgrades, the governor remains committed to delivering on his promises, regardless of where he is located.
“We are focused on improving the living standards of our people, and that’s what drives my decisions. Whether in Owerri or Abuja, my priority remains the same: to ensure that Imo benefits from all the opportunities available,” Uzodinma stated.
