By Aminat Aminu

Development is often driven by partnership rather than isolated efforts. Across Nigeria, stronger collaboration between the Federal Government and state governments is increasingly shaping infrastructure delivery and economic growth. Imo State offers a clear example of how this approach is beginning to produce visible results under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

A recent media tour of major infrastructure projects across the state provided journalists with the opportunity to assess ongoing developments firsthand. Led by officials of the Imo State Government, the tour highlighted projects delivered through cooperation between the administration of President Tinubu and Governor Hope Uzodimma.

From the expansion of the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport to the rehabilitation of key road networks and the elevation of Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education to a university, the projects reflect a broader effort to improve transportation, education and economic opportunities across the state.

Rebuilding Road Networks to Drive Economic Growth

Among the major projects showcased was the Owerri–Mbaise–Umuahia Road, a federal highway rehabilitated by the Imo State Government under an arrangement that allows the state to execute the project while awaiting reimbursement from the Federal Government.

Commissioner for Information, Public Orientation and Strategy, Hon. Declan Emelumba, described the road as a vital transport corridor serving more than seven communities and several local government areas. Once riddled with potholes and difficult to navigate, the highway has now been reconstructed into a smooth dual carriageway fitted with solar-powered streetlights.

According to Emelumba, the project demonstrates the practical benefits of cooperation between the two levels of government, allowing critical infrastructure to be delivered more quickly while improving connectivity and economic activities.

The Owerri–Okigwe Road tells a similar story. After years of neglect, the highway has been reconstructed, significantly reducing travel time for motorists. Residents who once spent hours navigating damaged sections of the road or taking alternative bush routes can now travel with greater ease.

The improved road network is expected to boost the movement of agricultural produce, commercial goods and passengers, strengthening economic activities across several local government areas.

Emelumba attributed the pace of infrastructure development to prudent financial management and increased allocations to states following the removal of fuel subsidy by the Federal Government. He noted that the improved fiscal position has enabled the state government to embark on major capital projects, pay salaries and pensions promptly, and address outstanding gratuities without resorting to excessive borrowing.

Cargo Airport Set to Boost Regional Trade

Another major highlight of the tour was the ongoing expansion of the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport.

The airport’s runway is being extended from 2,700 metres to 3,200 metres, a development that will enable it to receive wide-bodied international aircraft.

Airport Manager, Dr. Ann Nkechi Ihekwaba, said the project is in its final phase and is expected to be completed within the next two months, subject to favourable weather conditions.

She explained that once the upgraded runway receives the necessary certification, the airport will be able to handle large cargo aircraft, including Boeing 747-class planes, positioning it as a major cargo hub for the South-East.

Construction is also progressing on the cargo terminal, where warehouses, customs facilities and other support infrastructure are nearing completion. According to airport authorities, the installation of specialised cargo handling equipment is the final requirement before full operations begin.

Emelumba further disclosed that Afreximbank is supporting the establishment of a quality assurance centre that will certify export products before shipment, ensuring they comply with international standards.

The cargo airport is expected to reduce logistics costs for importers and exporters across the South-East, many of whom currently depend on ports and airports in Lagos. Beyond lowering transportation costs, the project is expected to encourage investment, create employment opportunities and strengthen the region’s export capacity.

International Flights Already Taking Off

Although cargo operations are yet to commence fully, the airport has already begun handling international flights for religious pilgrimages.

According to Emelumba, Muslim pilgrims have been airlifted directly from the airport, while Christian pilgrimage operations were inaugurated by the Vice President.

He described these developments as important milestones toward transforming the airport into a fully functional international logistics and aviation hub.

Renewed Hope for Higher Education

The tour also included a visit to Alvan Ikoku University of Education, formerly Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education.

Emelumba described the institution’s upgrade to university status as one of the state’s most significant educational achievements, noting that previous administrations had pursued the conversion without success.

He said the approval eventually came during President Tinubu’s administration while Governor Hope Uzodimma was in office.

The transition to a university is expected to expand academic programmes, increase research opportunities, create additional jobs and strengthen higher education across the South-East.

Federal-State Partnership on Display

Speaking after the inspection, presidential adviser Tunde Rahman said the projects demonstrate what can be achieved when the Federal Government and state governments work together toward common development goals.

He noted that several of the projects undertaken by the Uzodimma administration complement federal initiatives and align with the objectives of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Rahman also highlighted programmes such as the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), describing them as important interventions that are helping more students remain in tertiary institutions by easing financial constraints.

On the removal of fuel subsidy, he acknowledged the initial economic challenges associated with the policy but argued that it has strengthened the financial capacity of states to invest more substantially in infrastructure and public services.

According to him, many governors across the country have acknowledged the increased fiscal space created by the reform, adding that its long-term developmental benefits will become more evident over time.

A Shared Path to Development

The projects showcased during the tour illustrate how cooperation between the Federal Government and state governments can accelerate infrastructure development and improve public services.

Whether through reconstructed highways, the expansion of the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport or investments in higher education, Imo State is positioning itself to take advantage of stronger federal partnerships in pursuit of economic growth, improved connectivity and better opportunities for its people.