Imo State Hosts Major West African Economic Summit, Attracting Global Leaders

Imo Invest Summit 2025 Kicks Off in Owerri

Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria – Imo State is currently hosting the Imo Invest Summit 2025, a significant economic gathering for West Africa, taking place from December 4 to 5, 2025. The two-day event, held at Concorde Boulevard, has attracted a distinguished array of global leaders, top executives, and international development institutions, aiming to position Imo State as a premier investment destination in Nigeria.

The summit, organized by the Imo State Government under the leadership of Governor Hope Uzodimma, carries the theme 'Unlocking Imo's Economic Potential: Partnership, Investment, and Innovation'. Its primary objective is to showcase the state's economic reforms and attract global capital into key sectors.

High-Profile Attendance and Key Addresses

The event has drawn an unprecedented lineup of international and national dignitaries. Among the notable attendees are former United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, President of Liberia Joseph Boakai, former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, and former President of Mauritius Ameenah Gurib-Fakim. Nigeria's Vice President, Kashim Shettima, represented President Bola Tinubu at the opening session, emphasizing the Federal Government's commitment to partnering with Imo State for economic growth.

Governor Uzodimma officially opened the summit, highlighting Imo's readiness for investment and its abundant resources. Ban Ki-moon delivered a keynote address focusing on strategies for African subnational economies to attract global investment. Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson also delivered a keynote, reassuring attendees about security and commending Governor Uzodimma's efforts towards economic transformation, including plans for 24-hour electricity supply.

Focus on Investment Opportunities and Sectoral Growth

The Imo Invest Summit 2025 is designed to highlight a wide range of investment opportunities across critical sectors. These include:

• Industrial Growth and Infrastructure Expansion
• Clean Energy and Renewable Energy Initiatives, particularly within the Orashi Special Energy Zone, which anchors the state's gas-to-industry initiative.
• Agriculture and Agro-processing
• Technology and Digital Infrastructure
• Solid Minerals
• Tourism and the Creative Economy
• Public-Private Partnerships and financing for large-scale infrastructure.

Discussions also feature a fireside chat with former Afreximbank President, Prof. Benedict Oramah, and panel discussions on infrastructure, energy access, and logistics development. Day two of the summit is slated to delve into youth empowerment, digital transformation, and emerging investment opportunities, alongside business matchmaking sessions and a solid minerals roundtable.

A Blueprint for Regional Development

Described as one of West Africa's most significant economic gatherings, the summit is seen as a pivotal moment in Nigeria's subnational development story. Governor Uzodimma stated that the summit is 'more than an economic summit; it is a blueprint for how African states can compete on the global stage,' emphasizing the presentation of 'bankable projects, concrete reforms, and real opportunities' for investors. This event marks Imo State's first economic summit in 50 years, signaling a renewed focus on attracting foreign direct investment and fostering sustainable economic growth.