Imo State is positioning itself at the forefront of Nigeria’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital innovation sector, as highlighted by Governor Hope Uzodimma during the inauguration of the 4th Artificial Intelligence & Robotics Summit 2025 held on Wednesday in Owerri. The three-day event, taking place at the Protea Hotel in New Owerri, convened leading experts and stakeholders under the theme “Enabling Artificial Intelligence Systems for Rapid National Growth.”

Governor Uzodimma emphasised Imo State’s strategic commitment to digitalisation and technological advancement. He remarked that the state’s policies “are meticulously designed to anticipate and address the technological demands of the future,” reflecting a clear vision for positioning Imo as a national leader in AI development. The summit itself was timed to coincide with federal government initiatives aimed at bolstering Nigeria’s global standing in digital innovation, particularly under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

The governor pointed to the recent launch of the Labour Employment Enhancement Programme (LEEP), which seeks to equip Nigerians with vital digital skills and create 2.5 million jobs, as indicative of the federal government’s proactive role. Complementing this, Imo State proudly leads nationally by establishing the Ministry of Digital Economy and E-Government—an unprecedented move in Nigeria.

Governor Uzodimma spoke in detail about the “Skill-Up Imo Programme,” a highly successful initiative that has provided targeted training to over 40,000 youths in advanced technological fields such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. Central to the state’s digital strategy is the Imo Digital City (IDC), a flagship infrastructure project designed to nurture a vibrant technological ecosystem. This initiative recently secured a landmark $15 million partnership with the United States Market Access Centre (USMAC) in Silicon Valley, creating a sub-national collaboration unique in Africa. The partnership will facilitate innovation labs and mentorship opportunities for aspiring tech entrepreneurs in Imo.

To promote digital inclusion across the state, the Imo government plans to roll out an extensive fibre optic network and 5G broadband coverage to all 27 local government areas, thereby bridging the divide between urban and rural communities. The E-Government agenda further includes projects such as the upcoming “MyImo App”—a unified digital platform granting citizens access to various government services—and a fully automated Land Information System (LIS) aimed at increasing transparency in land administration. Additionally, the establishment of an Imo Business Call Centre will provide real-time support for investors and businesses, enhancing the state’s appeal as an investment destination.

Governor Uzodimma also issued an invitation to international organisations, urging them to consider partnerships with Imo State in advancing its innovation and investment-friendly environment. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering collaboration and inclusive development through technological transformation.

The summit featured a keynote address by Leo Stan Ekeh, Chairman and CEO of Zinox Group, who praised Governor Uzodimma for his visionary leadership. Speaking on the importance of entrepreneurship and infrastructure development, Ekeh described the governor as “a visionary leader with an unparalleled commitment to technology,” and called on participants to leverage the opportunities presented by AI and robotics in Nigeria’s economy.

Dr Muhammad Sirajo Aliyu, President of the Nigeria Computer Society (NCS), also addressed attendees, underscoring the organisation’s role in promoting digital transformation and innovation. He noted the summit’s focus on the latest advancements in AI and robotics to drive socio-economic progress and enhance digital inclusion nationwide.

Prominent figures attending the summit included the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr ‘Bosun Tijani; the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Chief Uche Nnaji; and the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Vice Chairman for South East, Dr Ijeomah Arodiogbu, among other dignitaries.

The event, organised over three days, marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to accelerate technological development and positions Imo State as a pivotal hub for AI and digital economy growth within the country.

Source: Noah Wire Services