Photo: Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State with the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Bernard Doro when the latter and his team paid a working visit to the Governor at Government House Owerri….Wednesday
Governor Hope Uzodimma has praised the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction for its support to Imo State, describing the ministry as a strategic partner in the State’s efforts to reduce poverty and empower vulnerable citizens.
Speaking while receiving the Minister,
Dr. Bernard Doro, and his delegation in Government House Owerri, Wednesday June 3, 2026, Uzodimma said his administration had aligned its humanitarian programmes with federal policies and successfully developed a credible social register recognised by development partners, including the World Bank.
The Governor commended the Ministry’s intervention programmes, particularly the transition from cash disbursements to bank-account payments, which he said would enhance transparency, efficiency and security for beneficiaries.
Uzodimma also showcased Imo’s growing digital economy, revealing that more than 65,000 youths have been trained in various digital skills, with many now working remotely for international companies.
“Our digital ecosystem is creating jobs, reducing unemployment and helping to address insecurity by taking young people off the streets,” he said.
He disclosed that the State’s Digital City operates through a public-private partnership with the University of California, Berkeley, and has attracted collaboration from organisations such as the UNDP and the World Bank.
The Governor further commended President Bola Tinubu for economic reforms that have boosted State revenues and enabled sub-national governments to undertake impactful development projects.
The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Bernard Doro commended the Imo State Government for its infrastructural and social development achievements while reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to poverty reduction and empowerment initiatives in the state.
He praised Governor Uzodimma for what he described as “giant development strides,” noting that he had reviewed a compendium of the administration’s achievements since his last visit during the State’s 50th anniversary celebration.
The Minister said Imo State had benefited from about N6.6 billion under the Household Prosperity and Empowerment Cash Transfer Programme, a flagship intervention that provides N75,000 in three tranches to vulnerable Nigerians.
“The funds go directly to verified beneficiaries drawn from the National Social Register and linked to their National Identification Numbers,” he said.
He also announced plans for the Renewed Hope Skills Acquisition Programme and expressed interest in partnering with the State, particularly through the Imo Digital City Hub, to expand skills development opportunities and create greater impact for residents.
