Owerri, the capital of Imo State, witnessed an unprecedented gathering of global power players on Thursday, December 5, 2025, for the Imo Economic and Investment Summit. The event transformed the city into a hub of high-level diplomacy and business, marked by a significant security presence.
A Constellation of Global Dignitaries in Owerri
The summit attracted a remarkable roster of international figures. Notable attendees included Nigeria's Vice President, Kashim Shettima, and former United Nations Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon. They were joined by the ex-Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Boris Johnson, and the first female President of Mauritius, Her Excellency Ameenah Gurib-Fakim.
The President of Liberia, Joseph Boakai, and Africa's wealthiest individual, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, also graced the occasion. The event was further bolstered by the presence of several state governors, federal lawmakers, industry leaders, and prominent traditional and religious rulers.
Key Speeches and Major Investment Pledges
In his address, former UK leader Boris Johnson expressed strong confidence in Nigeria's potential. He described the nation as "a power hub in the making" and encouraged citizens to remain hopeful about the future.
The spotlight, however, shone brightly on Aliko Dangote. The business magnate gave a firm assurance to the Imo State Governor regarding his group's intention to invest in the state. He revealed an ambitious plan for the Dangote Group, stating, "I can tell you that in the next three years, the programme we have in the Dangote Group—we are investing heavily in fertilizer." He added that the group aims to become the world's largest fertilizer investor by 2028.
Dangote also used the platform to advise African entrepreneurs, urging them to invest at home to catalyze the continent's economic growth and prosperity.
A Summit Built on Promise and Delivery
Declaring the summit open, the Imo State Commissioner for Finance and Coordinating Economy, who also chaired the Local Organizing Committee, expressed immense pride. Standing with the Commissioner for Budget, Economic Planning and Statistics, Amslem Anyanwu, he highlighted the fulfilment of their promise to the people.
"Today is the day we have all been working towards for months," he stated. "Look around—this world-class facility, these beautifully crafted pavilions, the energy in the air; everything is ready. Imo State is dressed in her finest, ready to welcome investors, partners, and friends from across Nigeria and beyond."
The successful hosting of the summit, underscored by the caliber of attendees and concrete investment discussions, positions Imo State as a serious and emerging destination for major capital and international partnership in Nigeria's economic landscape.
