By Clifford Ndujihe, Politics Editor

Imo State, one of Nigeria’s most vibrant political and economic hubs in the South-East, will from Sunday, February 1, 2026, roll out the drums to  celebrate 50 years of its existence with a week-long programme of events that will culminate in a grand finale on Saturday, February 7.

Governor Hope Uzodimma,, on behalf of the government and people of the state, has invited Imo indigenes at home and in the diaspora, residents, friends of the state and the general public to participate in the historic celebration expected to combine reflection, thanksgiving and renewed commitment to the state’s future.

The festivities will commence with an interdenominational thanksgiving service at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri, symbolising gratitude for the state’s journey through decades of political transitions, economic transformations and social evolution.

According to the state government, the golden jubilee is not only a celebration of milestones but also a moment of collective introspection on Imo’s trajectory since its creation in 1976, its contributions to national development, and the challenges that have shaped its identity.

The grand finale, scheduled for Saturday, February 7, at Government House, Owerri, will feature an honours awards ceremony recognising distinguished sons and daughters of the state, as well as the unveiling of a commemorative publication titled “Imo @ 50: The Full Story,” which chronicles the political, economic and cultural evolution of the state over five decades.

Beyond the ceremonies, the jubilee is expected to rekindle conversations about governance, security, economic revival and youth empowerment in a state often described as the intellectual heartbeat of the South-East.

Stakeholders said the celebration provides an opportunity to rebuild unity among Imo people and reposition the state for accelerated development in the decades ahead.

Governor Uzodimma, who has consistently projected Imo as a hub of investment and innovation, is expected to use the occasion to highlight his administration’s achievements in infrastructure, security, education and economic reforms, while outlining a forward-looking vision anchored on stability and inclusive growth.

Political leaders, traditional rulers, captains of industry, religious leaders and prominent Imo indigenes from across Nigeria and the diaspora are expected to grace the celebration, underscoring the symbolic significance of the golden jubilee as a rallying point for unity beyond partisan lines.

In a statement by the Secretary to the State Government and Chairman of the Planning Committee, Chief Cosmas Iwu, the government called on Imo people and friends of the state to join in celebrating what he described as “a defining moment in the state’s history.”