“I am dazed. I am impressed. I am happy. You have renewed the hope of young people — no wonder your name is Hope.” – APC National Chairman in Owerri

Reported by: Ime Richard Aondofa | Edited by: Henry Owen

Owerri, Imo State – The APC National Chairman, Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda, has lauded the SkillUp Imo Project, describing it as a visionary initiative that has renewed hope among young people in the state. Speaking at the 3rd Cohort Graduation Ceremony, he said, “I am dazed. I am impressed. I am happy. You have renewed the hope of young people, no wonder your name is Hope.”

The SkillUp Imo Project, anchored on the first pillar of the Imo Digital Economy Agenda (iDEA 2022–2026), aims to position technology as the engine of prosperity for Imo State. The programme has successfully upskilled 50,000 youths in vital digital competencies, including app development, data analytics, blockchain, AI, fintech, cybersecurity, digital marketing, cloud computing, IoT, gamification, and phone and computer repairs.

Governor Hope Uzodinma, speaking at the graduation, described the initiative as a realization of his vision for the state’s youth. “Our shared resolve is to place Imo at the forefront of the global digital economy. The future of Imo depends on our youth. I am proud to add another 10,000 to the 40,000 already trained, making it 50,000,” he said.

The governor also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reforms, which have increased revenue allocations to sub-national governments, empowering states to pursue developmental projects. “We are building an Imo where broadband will be like road networks everywhere,” Uzodinma added.

Highlighting the state’s digital innovation, the governor noted the launch of the ImoApp, developed by young Imolites, as a testament to homegrown technological solutions. He also pointed to the next ambitious goal: the creation of Digital City, Nigeria’s first AI-driven city, further cementing the state’s commitment to technology-led growth.

Human capital, technology, prosperity – the SkillUp Imo Project reflects a bold leap into a digital future, promising a new dawn for the youths and the state at large.

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