The Imo State Government announced on Wednesday that it has received a reward of $4 million (approximately ₦6.8 billion) from the World Bank in recognition of its efforts in fostering good governance and accountability, particularly in improving the ease of doing business in the state.
This was disclosed by the state’s Commissioner for Information, Public Orientation and Strategy, Declan Emelumba, during a briefing with journalists in Owerri.
Emelumba revealed that Imo was one of only four states in Nigeria to qualify for reimbursement under the World Bank’s State Action on Business Enabling Reforms programme. The programme assessed states based on criteria such as the efficiency of land administration, the regulatory framework for private investment in fibre optic infrastructure, the quality of services provided by investment promotion agencies, and the transparency of government-to-business services.
“The state excelled in the four criteria, thus qualifying it to be rewarded with the huge sum for the consolidation of its programmes,” Emelumba stated.
He further explained that the state’s prioritisation of efficiency and transparency in its dealings with businesses, as well as its culture of accountability, were key factors in securing the reward.
When asked about the benefits of the funds, he said, “This is like a pass mark from the World Bank that, in terms of ease of doing business, our state is among the best. It is a reward for hard work. The fund means that if you do well, they reward you for doing well in these areas, especially in the area of infrastructure development. The Imo people will be satisfied that extra cash will be provided for more development, especially in rural roads.”
He described the award as, “a testament to the government’s commitment to progressive governance, economic empowerment, and sustainable development. Under the focused administration of Governor Hope Uzodimma, Imo State implemented firm policy initiatives to improve land administration, enabling seamless land registration and boosting land-based investments through transparent governance. Uzodimma has boosted the confidence of investors in the state, especially in the area of digital connectivity.”
Responding to criticisms of the government, Emelumba said, “Contrary to the submissions of critics of government, Uzodimma has been working very hard, interacting with investors within and outside Nigeria to buy into the investment opportunities available in the state. Imo State has made giant strides in strengthening its investment promotion agencies to ensure that they attracted the best investors to the state.”
He added, “The government’s achievements in the SABER programme of the World Bank are a confirmation of Uzodimma’s leadership initiatives aimed at making Imo the investment hub in Nigeria.”
