Grassroots Development Boost: Imo Councillors Set to Execute N3.6bn Ward Projects
Imo State witnessed a renewed push for grassroots development on Monday as the state government officially released project documents and mobilization papers for its newly approved ward constituency programme—an initiative backed by an estimated N3.6 billion.
Under the scheme, each of the state’s 306 councillors is expected to receive N10 million to deliver priority projects within their respective wards. The move marks one of the most significant direct community intervention efforts under Governor Hope Uzodimma’s administration.
Councillors and their selected contractors gathered in Owerri to receive the approved documents, signaling the formal kickoff of the ward-based development drive.
Representing the governor at the event, the Commissioner for Rural Development and Economic Empowerment, Hon. Chief Ifeanyi D. Oruh, announced that designated commercial banks had already been cleared to commence immediate release of funds.
Oruh highlighted the governor’s strong commitment to bringing development closer to the people, urging councillors to ensure strict monitoring of contractors so that each project reflects quality, transparency, and timely delivery.
“These projects are dear to His Excellency,” Oruh told the councillors. “Return to your wards, accelerate the work, and do not disappoint your people or the mandate you carry.”
He explained that the initiative aims to strengthen government presence in rural communities, ensuring that development reaches every corner of the state—not just the urban centers.
The commissioner further called for effective collaboration among councillors, contractors, and local stakeholders to prevent bottlenecks and maximize the impact of the projects.
The ward constituency projects will address a variety of community needs, ranging from water supply systems and rural road rehabilitation to classroom construction, primary healthcare facilities, and electrification—each tailored to the most pressing needs of individual wards.
