Tinubu Commissions Projects, Unveils Uzodimma’s Book in Imo State

President Bola Tinubu visited Owerri, Imo State, where he unveiled Governor Uzodimma’s new book and commissioned major infrastructure projects,including a rebuilt conference centre, road, and flyover.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, visited Owerri, the Imo State capital, where he unveiled Governor Hope Uzodimma’s new book and commissioned a number of completed infrastructure projects. The visit was described by many in the state as both a celebration of governance and a sign of closer ties between the federal and state governments.

The ceremony began with the official presentation of Governor Uzodimma’s book titled A Decade of Impactful Progressive Governance in Nigeria. The publication, which documents the governor’s experiences in public service and his contributions to national politics, was unveiled by President Tinubu in front of political leaders, traditional rulers, and dignitaries from across the country. The President praised Uzodimma for putting his story into writing, saying that it would serve as a record for present and future leaders who wish to learn from the challenges and successes of governance.

After the book launch, the President moved on to commission a series of projects that the Imo State government described as part of its effort to renew infrastructure and open up the economy of the state. The first project was the Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Conference Centre in Owerri.

President Tinubu commissions the newly reconstructed Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Conference Centre, Owerri

The structure, originally built as the Imo International Conference Centre, had long been abandoned after suffering damage during heavy rains that led to parts of it collapsing. The Uzodimma administration decided to rebuild it from the ground up and renamed it in honour of the late businessman and elder statesman, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, who died in 2024. The facility is expected to host large conferences, cultural events, and business gatherings that can attract both local and international attention to Imo State.

President Tinubu also commissioned the newly rebuilt Owerri–Mbaise–Obowo–Umuahia Road. This road, which links Imo to neighbouring Abia State, had for years been in a poor state, making travel difficult and affecting trade between communities. The reconstruction of the road has been welcomed by transporters, traders, and commuters who believe it will reduce travel time and improve economic activities along the busy corridor.

President Tinubu
commissions the newly rebuilt Owerri–Mbaise–Obowo–Umuahia Road.

Another project unveiled during the visit was a new flyover at the Control Post junction in Owerri, connecting Port Harcourt Road and Onitsha Road. The flyover is designed to ease heavy traffic around the Assumpta Cathedral Roundabout, one of the busiest areas of the city. The project also included upgrades to the roads and drainage systems around the roundabout, which had previously been known for traffic congestion and flooding.

Crowds gathered in different parts of Owerri to welcome the President and cheer as the projects were declared open. Supporters of the governor said the visit was proof that the state was benefiting from a partnership with the federal government under the Renewed Hope Agenda. Many residents described the completed works as evidence of progress, though some opposition voices called for more details on how much the projects cost and how the contracts were awarded.

Speaking during the ceremony, Governor Uzodimma thanked the President for honouring the state with his visit and assured Imo people that more projects were on the way. He said his administration was committed to changing the face of Imo through road construction, public facilities, and investments in the economy. He added that the commissioning of the road and flyover would not only improve the movement of people and goods but also boost business confidence in the state capital.

President Tinubu, in his remarks, commended the governor for his efforts and urged him to continue building infrastructure that will outlive his administration. The President described the book presentation and the commissioning of projects as a sign that Nigeria’s leaders must continue to combine policy with practical delivery. He told the crowd that his administration at the federal level is also working to improve infrastructure across the country, reduce hardship, and create opportunities for young people.

The visit ended with a reception in Owerri where leaders of the All Progressives Congress and other invited guests interacted with the President before his return to Abuja. For many residents of Imo, the day was one of excitement as the city played host to both the number one citizen of the country and a showcase of new projects aimed at improving daily life.

Observers note that beyond the ceremonies, the event carried political weight. Governor Uzodimma remains one of the key figures of the APC in the South East, and the President’s presence in Imo was seen as a show of support for his leadership. At the same time, the governor’s book launch offered him the chance to present himself as a voice in the national conversation about governance and progress.

While questions remain about transparency, project costs, and whether all the inaugurated works are fully completed and ready for public use, the visit has already been recorded as one of the most significant presidential stops in Imo in recent years. For many, it provided both a sense of pride and hope that long-abandoned projects could finally see the light of day.

President Tinubu returned to Abuja later that evening after what government officials in Imo described as a successful and historic working visit.

Read more: Imo State Governor Hosts Super Falcons’ Homegrown Stars in Abuja