The Imo State Government has marked a major achievement in its youth empowerment and digital development plan as 50,000 young people have now been fully trained under the SkillUp Imo Project. This milestone highlights the government’s growing investment in digital skills, innovation, and technology to build a stronger economy for the state.
At the 3rd Cohort Graduation Ceremony held in Owerri, 10,000 youths successfully completed intensive training in key areas such as app development, data analytics, blockchain, artificial intelligence, fintech, cybersecurity, digital marketing, cloud computing, Internet of Things, gamification, phone and computer repairs, and other relevant digital skills. This brings the total number of trained youths under the initiative to 50,000.
The SkillUp Imo Project is part of the Imo Digital Economy Agenda (iDEA 2022–2026) and is focused on positioning technology as the main engine for economic growth in the state. The project’s goal of training 50,000 young people in digital competencies has been fully achieved, setting the stage for a more inclusive and technology-driven economy. High CPC keywords such as digital economy, fintech, cybersecurity, blockchain, AI training, and youth empowerment reflect the core focus of the initiative.
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda, who was present at the event, expressed admiration for the project and Governor Hope Uzodinma’s vision. 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.”
Governor Uzodinma described the programme as a clear demonstration of his administration’s commitment to digital transformation and youth development. “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.
He praised the President’s reforms that have boosted revenue to states, allowing for greater investment in infrastructure. “We are building an Imo where broadband will be like road networks everywhere,” he added.
The event also featured the unveiling of ImoApp, a homegrown digital innovation developed by young Imolites, showcasing the growing tech talent in the state. The next step is the Digital City, Nigeria’s first AI City, which aims to further strengthen Imo’s position in the digital economy.