Imo @ 50: Former Deputy Governor, Madumere Urges Unity to Consolidate Gains
Imo State marked a historic milestone last Saturday as dignitaries from across the country gathered at Government House, Owerri, for the grand finale of the state’s Golden Jubilee celebration. The event was a blend of reflection, celebration and renewed commitment to the future, as leaders assessed the journey of the state since its creation and charted a path forward.
Among the prominent personalities at the ceremony was former Deputy Governor, Prince Eze Madumere, who described the celebration as both symbolic and strategic. He noted that while Imo has faced its share of socio-economic and political challenges over the decades, the state is steadily assuming what he termed “a positive shape towards prosperity and sustainable progress.”
Speaking on the sidelines of the event, Madumere said the Golden Jubilee should not only be about festivities but also about honest evaluation. “Fifty years is a significant milestone. It gives us the opportunity to reflect on where we are coming from and where we are headed. Despite our challenges, Imo is taking a positive shape towards prosperity and meaningful progress,” he said.
He emphasized the need for collective responsibility in sustaining the state’s growth trajectory. According to him, development cannot be left in the hands of government alone. “We must all come together—leaders, youths, traditional institutions and the private sector—to strengthen the foundations of our growth. The task of building Imo belongs to every son and daughter of the state,” Madumere stated.
The former Deputy Governor further stressed the importance of unity and shared vision, urging stakeholders to put aside divisive tendencies. “If we are united in purpose, there is no limit to what Imo can achieve. Our diversity should be our strength, not a source of division. This is the time to consolidate our gains and reposition the state for greater heights,” he added.
Madumere also called for sustained investment in human capital development, infrastructure and youth empowerment as key drivers of long-term prosperity. He maintained that a forward-looking strategy anchored on accountability and inclusiveness would ensure that future generations inherit a stronger and more stable Imo State.
The Golden Jubilee celebration concluded with renewed optimism about the state’s future, as participants echoed the call for unity, resilience and shared commitment. For Madumere and many other attendees, the 50-year anniversary was not merely a commemoration of the past, but a defining moment to recommit to the vision of a prosperous and progressive Imo State.
