The Vice President, Kashim Shettima, alongside several state governors and a distinguished assembly of royal fathers, is set to converge on Owerri this Saturday, February 7, 2026, as Imo State celebrates the historic milestone of its golden jubilee, reports ITREALMS.
The state capital is already enveloped in a festive atmosphere, adorned with commemorative decorations as the people prepare for the grand finale of a week-long celebration marking 50 years since the state’s creation in 1976.
This landmark event is expected to attract a massive gathering of business moguls, renowned entertainers, and prominent friends of the state from across the federation.
The chief host, Governor Hope Uzodimma, would lead the festivities by unveiling a commemorative book titled "Imo@50: The Full Story," which chronicles the state's evolution over the past five decades.
The chief host, Governor Hope Uzodimma, would lead the festivities by unveiling a commemorative book titled "Imo@50: The Full Story," which chronicles the state's evolution over the past five decades.
In addition to the book launch, the Governor will confer special honours and awards on distinguished indigenes and other Nigerians who have made significant contributions to the progress of the state.
According to the Commissioner for Information, Public Orientation and Strategy, Hon. Declan Emelumba, the celebration has drawn immense interest nationwide, with the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, among the prominent traditional rulers who have confirmed their attendance.
The high-profile guests are expected to begin arriving in Owerri as early as Friday, February 6, ahead of the Saturday ceremony, which marks the first time the state has organized such an extensive anniversary celebration.
The high-profile guests are expected to begin arriving in Owerri as early as Friday, February 6, ahead of the Saturday ceremony, which marks the first time the state has organized such an extensive anniversary celebration.
The journey to this grand finale included an interdenominational thanksgiving service held last Sunday, where Governor Uzodimma and the people of Imo expressed gratitude for the state's journey over the last half-century.
Beyond the official ceremonies, the government has also integrated a digital component into the festivities through an online quiz competition that attracted 2,313 participants, resulting in 18 top winners who will be handsomely rewarded for their knowledge of the state's history.
Governor Uzodimma has already released N50 million as prize money for these winners, with the funds slated for direct disbursement into their bank accounts.
Governor Uzodimma has already released N50 million as prize money for these winners, with the funds slated for direct disbursement into their bank accounts.
During the Saturday ceremony, a symbolic cheque will be presented to the top achievers, led by the overall winner who will receive N20 million.
The first runner-up is set to receive N10 million, while the second runner-up takes home N5 million, with 15 other participants receiving N1 million each.
This significant investment in the youth and intellectual engagement underscores the state government's commitment to ensuring that the golden jubilee is inclusive and leaves a lasting legacy for the next generation of Imo citizens.
Uboshe Uboshe/Editor
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