Governor Uzodimma with Mohammad Shafiq, Chairman of Jampur Group
By Collins Ughalaa
Imo State is on the verge of an economic resurgence, and Governor Hope Uzodimma is leading the charge. Predecessors talked about it for years with nothing to show, but Uzodimma is making it happen. His latest move is a couple of strategic partnerships with the globally renowned Jampur Group to breathe new life into industries that have long been dormant and enhance an already performing one.
These agreements will create jobs, improve the economy, and secure a better future for every citizen of Imo State.
“We have engaged Jampur Group in our quest to involve the private sector to manage the various industries that have been moribund in Imo State,” Governor Uzodimma announced, signaling a step towards jerking the Imo State agro-processing and manufacturing sectors back to life through public-private-partnership.
“We’ve signed an agreement with this group to take over the livestock production in Acharaugbo. Open it up and expand it, not only do poultry, piggery but other livestock production, and processing. And they will also install a fertilizer plant that will do 400 metric tons a day in the same premises,” Uzodimma stated, setting out his expectation.
Jampur Group has a proven track record of success. Headquartered in Dubai, Jampur Group boasts a diverse portfolio that spans aviation, power, mining, agricultural processing, and manufacturing. They have made their mark across Africa, Europe, and Asia, delivering high value projects that have transformed communities and economies. In Nigeria alone, they have powered Abuja International Airport with a state-of-the-art 8MW power plant and collaborated with Angola’s national electricity company to improve energy supply. This is a partner with the expertise and resources to make a real difference in Imo State.
The difference will be felt most keenly in the revival of two iconic names from the Imo industrial past: Standard Shoe Company Limited and Nsu Tile Industries Limited. These companies, established in in May 1974 and September 1985 respectively, once held the promise of economic prosperity but have since fallen into disrepair.
Standard Shoe, once a leading footwear manufacturer, stumbled in the late 2000s, eventually ceasing production in 2009. Failing to repay its debts, the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria, AMCON, took it over in 2011. But Governor Uzodimma’s administration refused to let this legacy fade. In 2022, Uzodimma cleared the company’s debts and recovered its assets from AMCON, paving the way for this new partnership. “They (Jampur Group) will also take over Standard Shoe that has been lying fallow,” stated Governor Uzodimma.
Nsu Tile Industries Limited, a pioneer in tile and ceramics production, also experienced a decline, leaving a void in the local market. Now, with Jampur’s expertise, it is poised for a comeback. “They will take over Nsu Tiles manufacturing and put it into operation,” Uzodimma announced, “and in addition, establish a textile factory within the same premises.”
But what does this mean for the people of Imo State? It means jobs. It means economic growth. It means access to high-quality, locally-made products. It means a brighter future where prosperity is shared by all.
“We are going to sign this agreement because all these projects are meant to start running within the next three to six months,” Governor Uzodimma confirmed, emphasising the urgency and commitment to delivering tangible results.
With this move, Imo people see yet again that their governor is an action taker and a promise keeper. A stronger, more prosperous, Imo is emerging where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. And with Governor Hope Uzodimma at the helm, working hand-in-hand with a global partner like Jampur Group, that future looks brighter than ever.
Hon. Sir Collins Ughalaa is the Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Orientation
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