South East · Capital: Owerri
Imo State
Governor: Hope Uzodimma
Population
3,934,899
Land area
5,530 km²
Created
February 3, 1976
Governance
Sen. Hope Odidika Uzodimma (APC) has served as Governor of Imo State since January 2020, re-elected in 2023. A businessman and former Senator for Imo West, he currently chairs the Progressive Governors' Forum and has pursued a large-scale road and urban renewal program across Owerri.
History
Imo State was created on 3 February 1976 from the former East Central State. Its capital, Owerri, is nicknamed the 'Eastern Heartland,' and the state's Oguta Lake and Rojenny Tourist Complex reflect a long-standing state push to diversify beyond its oil and gas base into hospitality.
Natural Resources
Crude oil and natural gas
Moderate reserves located in the state's southern LGAs.
Tourism
Anchored by Oguta Lake, one of Nigeria's most scenic natural lakes, and various government-developed tourist complexes around Owerri.
- Oguta Lake
- Rojenny Tourist Complex
- Nekede Zoo
Agriculture
Cassava, oil palm, and cocoyam farming remain significant despite the state's dense urbanization and oil economy.
Cassava · Oil palm · Cocoyam · Rice
Investment
A moderate oil- and gas-producing state, with growing investment in road infrastructure and urban renewal across Owerri under a large capital-projects push.
Oil & gas · Trade & commerce · Agro-processing · Tourism
Infrastructure
Education
Federal University of Technology, Owerri · Imo State University