Imo State has set an ambitious goal to become Nigeria's premier destination for innovation and startups, according to the state's Commissioner for Digital Economy and E-Government.
Tech Champions Award Recognition
Dr Chimezie Amadi made the revelation in Lagos following Imo State's recognition as one of the winners of the National Computer Society (NCS) Tech Champions of the Year award. The prestigious honor was presented during the 2025 National Information Technology Merit Awards on Thursday, November 24, 2025.
Imo State shared the spotlight with Jigawa, Plateau, and Ogun states, all recognized for their outstanding contributions to technology advancement. The administration of Governor Hope Uzodimma received particular praise for its digital transformation initiatives that are reshaping the state's economic landscape.
Double Honor for Imo Leadership
In a remarkable double achievement, Governor Uzodimma was named Tech Champion of the Year, while Commissioner Amadi was conferred with the prestigious Fellowship of NCS. Dr Amadi received the award on behalf of the governor and expressed excitement about the professional recognition of their digital transformation efforts.
"We feel great. We feel super excited that this whole push towards digital transformation in our state is receiving professional recognition," Amadi stated. "We are happy as the champions of these movements and of these efforts. Receiving this award is also a validation of our modest contribution in growing the digital economy in Nigeria."
Building a Knowledge-Driven Economy
The commissioner emphasized that the award serves as testament to Governor Uzodimma's comprehensive policies focused on several key areas:
- Digital inclusiveness programs
- Digital upskilling initiatives
- Startup support mechanisms
- Building a smart economy infrastructure
Amadi described the recognition as both an endorsement of current efforts and a motivation to achieve more. "We take this award as an endorsement of our efforts and also a demand for us to do more," he affirmed.
The commissioner highlighted the significant progress already visible across Imo State, noting that digital governance is fully established and there has been huge growth in digital infrastructure deployment. These developments form the foundation for the state's aspiration to become Nigeria's undisputed innovation and startup capital.
The establishment of the Ministry of Digital Economy and E-Government by Governor Uzodimma appears to be yielding tangible results, positioning Imo State as an emerging technology hub in Nigeria's competitive digital landscape.
