OWERRI, Nigeria (AP) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu visited Imo State on a working trip where he commissioned several major infrastructure projects designed to boost trade, ease transportation, and expand economic opportunities in the region.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The projects, completed under the administration of Governor Hope Uzodimma, include a 52-kilometer dual carriageway linking Owerri, Mbaise, Obowo, and Umuahia; the Assumpta Flyover at Owerri’s Control Post; and the Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Convention Center.

Tinubu, welcomed by government officials and community leaders, praised the state’s commitment to development and said the new facilities would strengthen regional growth and improve the quality of life for residents.

The newly reconstructed Owerri–Mbaise–Obowo–Umuahia Road is expected to open up rural economies and improve connections between Imo and neighboring states. Officials said the road will make it easier for farmers and traders to move goods, encourage commerce, and reduce travel time for commuters.

The Assumpta Flyover, built to resolve years of traffic gridlock in Owerri, was also declared open. Government leaders said the bridge will allow vehicles to move faster across the busy Control Post junction, which has long been a traffic hotspot in the capital city.

In addition, the president inaugurated the Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Convention Center, a state-of-the-art facility meant to attract conferences, exhibitions, and international events. Officials described the convention center as a key step in positioning Imo State as a destination for tourism and business gatherings.

“These projects are a reflection of our Shared Prosperity Agenda, which continues to deliver meaningful and inclusive development for all Imo people,” Uzodimma said in remarks at the commissioning ceremony. He added that the state is committed to creating infrastructure that supports both urban and rural communities.

Uzodimma also expressed gratitude to Tinubu for making time to visit, despite what he described as “pressing national matters.” The governor said the president’s presence reaffirmed federal support for Imo’s progress.

Tinubu’s visit was met with celebrations from local residents and cultural groups who lined the streets to welcome him. Traditional dancers performed at several stops, and banners carrying messages of appreciation were displayed at project sites.

The president, who has emphasized infrastructure as a priority for national growth, said projects like these are essential for building a stronger economy. “Roads, bridges, and public facilities are not just structures,” Tinubu said. “They are lifelines that connect people, create opportunities, and foster unity among communities.”

Analysts said the projects could have long-term benefits for Imo State by making it easier for investors and businesses to operate in the region. Improved road links are expected to reduce transportation costs, while the convention center could increase tourism revenue.

However, some development experts cautioned that the state must ensure proper maintenance of the new infrastructure to prevent rapid deterioration. They also stressed the importance of complementing physical projects with policies that support job creation and youth empowerment.

For residents, the immediate impact is already visible. “We used to spend hours stuck at Control Post,” said Chinedu Okeke, a commercial driver in Owerri. “Now with the flyover, it’s much faster. This will help our daily work.”

The working visit comes as Tinubu continues to tour different states to promote federal partnerships and support local development efforts. His trip to Imo is seen as part of a wider push to highlight achievements in infrastructure across the country.

With the commissioning complete, officials said attention will turn to ensuring the projects deliver the intended results. The Imo government pledged that more infrastructure initiatives are underway under its Shared Prosperity Agenda.