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ABUJA — The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Imo State Chapter, has described the recent international recognition bestowed on Governor Hope Uzodimma in the United Kingdom as a strong indication of growing global confidence in Imo State’s governance, infrastructure development and investment potential.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the Deputy National President of ALGON and Chairman of ALGON, Imo State Chapter, Hon. Toni Adikibe, said the honour reflects the international community’s acknowledgement of the state’s developmental progress under the Uzodimma administration.

The statement, issued on behalf of the 27 democratically elected local government chairmen in Imo State, congratulated the governor on receiving a meritorious honour from the South Carolina House of Representatives, United Kingdom Chapter, as well as delivering what it described as a historic address at the House of Lords in London.

According to ALGON, the recognition places Governor Uzodimma among a select group of only 40 Africans to have received the distinction, reinforcing Imo State’s growing profile on the global stage.

The association attributed the honour to the administration’s implementation of its 3R Agenda—Rehabilitation, Reconstruction and Recovery—which it said has driven significant improvements in infrastructure, public services and the state’s economic outlook over the past six years.

Among the projects highlighted were the reconstruction of more than 600 kilometres of urban and rural roads, the construction of the Assumpta Twin Flyover, the establishment of the Orashi Energy Free Trade Zone, investments in healthcare infrastructure, digital transformation initiatives and urban renewal programmes.

ALGON argued that these projects have enhanced the state’s competitiveness by improving connectivity, expanding infrastructure and creating conditions capable of attracting investment across key sectors of the economy.

“The international community has taken due cognisance of the monumental strides recorded in Imo. These interventions have repositioned the state as a model of purposeful leadership and strengthened its standing among Nigeria’s sub-national economies,” the statement said.

The association noted that improved infrastructure and strategic economic projects have laid the foundation for increased investment opportunities in manufacturing, real estate, energy, agriculture, hospitality and tourism.

It added that development initiatives undertaken by the state government have also had a direct impact at the grassroots, with local government areas benefiting from improved rural road networks, rehabilitated healthcare facilities and agricultural support programmes aimed at stimulating local economies.

Hon. Adikibe described the governor’s international recognition as “a global testament to service, sacrifice and visionary statesmanship,” saying the honour validates the administration’s commitment to inclusive development and sustainable economic growth.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the 27 local government chairmen to continue collaborating with the state government in implementing policies and programmes designed to accelerate socio-economic development across all communities.

According to him, strengthening cooperation between the state and local governments remains critical to ensuring that development initiatives translate into improved livelihoods, expanded business opportunities and greater economic prosperity for residents.

ALGON expressed optimism that the governor’s international recognition would further enhance Imo State’s visibility among investors and development partners seeking emerging destinations for investment and economic collaboration.

The statement concluded by expressing confidence that the administration would continue to pursue policies capable of consolidating infrastructure development, promoting enterprise growth and positioning Imo State as one of Nigeria’s leading destinations for investment and sustainable development.