Imo is a state in the Federal Republic of Nigeria. By area, it is the third smallest state in the country and is densely populated, according to census data n 2006. Before its creation, the region was a contested area and served as a major battleground during Nigeria’s three-year civil war. Imo State has a rich history that dates back to the pre-colonial era.
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When Was Imo State Created?
Imo State was created on February 3, 1976, by General Murtala Mohammed. Since then, it has been governed by both military and civilian administrations. The state is named after the Imo River, and its capital city is Owerri.
The state’s slogan is “Eastern Heartland.” While Owerri is the most popular city, other major towns include Okigwe, Orlu, Oguta, Mbaise, Orsu, Omuma, Ikeduru, and Mbano, among others. Imo state postal code is 460001.
 Slogan: : Home of Solid Minerals |
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| Date of Creation: | 3rd Feb. 1976 |
| Location | South East |
| Executive Governor: | Hope Uzodinma |
| Deputy Governor: | Chinyere Ekomaru |
| Population: | 3.93 million from 2006 Census |
| Language: | Igbo or ibo |
| LGA: | 27 |
| Postal Code | 460001 |
Location of Imo State
Imo State is located in the southeastern part of Nigeria. It shares borders with three states:
The state is situated at approximately latitude 5°29′N and longitude 7°2′E.
Land Area
The land area of Imo State is 5,530 square kilometers (2,140 square miles), representing about 3% of Nigeria’s total landmass. This makes it the 34th largest state in Nigeria by land area.
Population
In 2017, the estimated population of Imo State was 4.93 million. By 2022, this figure had grown to an estimated 5,459,300, making Imo the 13th most populous state in Nigeria.
Topography
Imo State has diverse topography shaped by a mix of geographical features, including mountains, water bodies, and lowlands. Regions such as Aboh Mbaise and Ngor Okpala are known for their hilly and elevated terrains, while the southern parts of the state, including Owerri, are predominantly lowland areas.
Vegetation
Imo State is located in the tropical rainforest zone, with prominent vegetation in areas like Ohaji and Egbema. This includes grasslands, dense forests, and extensive farmlands where crops such as cassava, maize, cocoyam, and yam are cultivated. Common economic trees in the state include oil palm, rubber, mahogany, iroko, and obeche.
Climate: Wet and Dry Seasons
- Rainy Season: April to October, with peak rainfall occurring in June, July, and August. Annual precipitation ranges between 60 and 80 inches, and temperatures during this period range from 75°F to 85°F.
- Dry Season: November to March characterized by higher temperatures (26°C to 32°C) and reduced rainfall. This season coincides with the Harmattan, which brings dry, dusty winds from the Sahara Desert.
Tribe of Imo State
Imo State has been inhabited by the Igbo (tribe) people for centuries. The Igbo language, particularly its various dialects, is traditionally spoken throughout the state. However, English has become widely spoken, especially in urban areas and by non-Igbo residents.
Religion in Imo State
Christianity is the predominant religion in Imo State. Most Christians belong to orthodox denominations such as the Catholic Church and the Anglican Church, though Pentecostal groups are also well-represented. Additionally, there are Islamic worship centers and some traditional religious practices observed by a minority of the population.
Occupation of the People
Agriculture remains the primary occupation in Imo State. Major crops cultivated include yam, cassava, maize, and other staples. The large-scale production of palm oil is particularly significant in areas such as Ohaji, Ikeduru, and Oguta, making the state a key supplier of palm oil for domestic and commercial purposes.
In addition to agriculture, crude oil and natural gas extraction employ a significant portion of the workforce, as Imo is part of Nigeria’s oil-producing region. Many residents are also self-employed, engaging in business ventures or working as artisans, while others hold positions in government institutions and private sector organizations.
Number of LGAs
Imo State currently has 27 Local Government Areas (LGAs), and the names are as follows:
| 1. Aboh Mbaise | 10. Isu | 19. Okigwe |
| 2. Ahiazu Mbaise | 11. Mbaitoli | 20. Onuimo |
| 3. Ehime Mbano | 12. Ngor-Okpala | 21. Orlu |
| 4. Ezinihite Mbaise | 13. Njaba | 22. Orsu |
| 5. Ideato North | 14. Nkwerre | 23. Oru East |
| 6. Ideato South | 15. Nwangele | 24. Oru West |
| 7. Ihitte/Uboma | 16. Obowo | 25. Owerri Municipal |
| 8. Ikeduru | 17. Oguta | 26. Owerri North |
| 9. Isiala Mbano | 18. Ohaji/Egbema | 27. Owerri West |
Who Was the First Governor of Imo State?
The first governor of Imo State was Ndubuisi Kanu, a military officer. He served as the state’s administrator under the military system of governance. Ndubuisi Kanu, born on November 3, 1943, hailed from Isuikwuato Local Government Area in Abia State and was of Igbo ethnicity.
Kanu joined the Nigerian Navy in 1962, receiving part of his military training in India, where he completed cadet training. He specialized in personnel, logistics, and training. During the Nigerian Civil War, Kanu fought on the side of the Biafran forces.
In 1975, he was appointed as part of General Murtala Mohammed’s ruling cabinet. Kanu officially became the governor of Imo State in March 1976 during General Olusegun Obasanjo’s military regime. His notable achievements included:
- Planning and developing Owerri, the state capital.
- Constructing roads to improve infrastructure.
- Creating additional local government areas.
- Establishing a broadcasting network, which later became the Imo Broadcasting Corporation (IBC).
Who Is the Current Governor of Imo State?
The current governor of Imo State is Hope Uzodimma. He assumed office on January 14, 2020, following a Supreme Court ruling that nullified the election of Emeka Ihedioha. The court determined that 388 polling unit results had been excluded from Uzodimma’s votes, leading to his victory.
Hope Uzodimma was born on December 2, 1958, in Omuma, his hometown. He earned a degree in International Studies and a second degree in Political Science from the University of London. He also holds an MSc in Human Relations from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).
Uzodimma began his political career during Nigeria’s Second Republic and held various political offices. Before becoming governor, he served as a Senator representing Imo West from 2011 to 2019, completing two terms. His experience as a senator significantly contributed to his leadership skills as governor.
Who Is the Deputy Governor of Imo State?
The Deputy Governor of Imo State is Chinyere Ekomaru. She was sworn into office on January 15, 2024, after Governor Hope Uzodimma selected her as his running mate in the 2023 gubernatorial election.
Ekomaru replaced Prof. Placid Njoku, Uzodimma’s former deputy. While Uzodimma emphasized that there were no personal issues with Njoku, he stated that strategic adjustments were necessary for the election and his administration.
List of All Governors till Present
Since its creation, Imo State has been governed by both military administrators and civilian governors. Military governors were appointed by the ruling military leadership, while civilian governors have been elected through democratic processes. The table below provides a list of all the governors of Imo State, past and present.
| Name | Period in Office | Party |
| Ndubuisi Kanu | Mar 1976 – 1977 | Military |
| Adekunle Lawal | 1977 – Jul 1978 | Military |
| Sunday Adenihun | Jul 1978 – Oct 1979 | Military |
| Samuel Mbakwe | 1 Oct 1979 – 31 Dec 1983 | NPP |
| Ike Nwachukwu | Jan 1984 – Aug 1985 | Military |
| Allison Madueke | Aug 1985 – 1986 | Military |
| Amadi Ikwechegh | 1986 – 1990 | Military |
| Anthony Oguguo | Aug 1990 – Jan 1992 | Military |
| Evan Enwerem | Jan 1992 – Nov 1993 | NRC |
| James Aneke | 9 Dec 1993 – 22 Aug 1996 | Military |
| Tanko Zubairu | 22 Aug 1996 – May 1999 | Military |
| Achike Udenwa | 29 May 1999 – 29 May 2007 | PDP |
| Ikedi Ohakim | 29 May 2007 – 29 May 2011 | PPA / PDP |
| Rochas Okorocha | 29 May 2011 – 29 May 2019 | APC |
| Emeka Ihedioha | 29 May 2019 – 15 Jan 2020 | PDP |
| Hope Uzodinma | 15 Jan 2020 – Current Governor | APC |
Higher Institutions in Imo State
Below is a list of higher education institutions in the state
| Name | Location | Type | Degrees Offered |
| Federal Polytechnic, Nekede | Nekede, Owerri | Federal Polytechnic | National Diploma (ND), Higher National Diploma (HND) |
| Federal University of Technology, Owerri | Owerri | Federal University | Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate |
| Hezekiah University, Umudi | Umudi, Nkwerre | Private University | Bachelor’s |
| Imo State Polytechnic (Now University of Agriculture, Umuagwo) | Umuagwo | State Polytechnic/University | ND, HND, Bachelor’s |
| Imo State University, Owerri | Owerri | State University | Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate |
| Kingsley Ozumba Mbadiwe University, Ogboko | Ogboko, Ideato | State University | Bachelor’s, Master’s |
The table above shows that there is one federal university, one state university, and two privately owned universities in Imo State. Additionally, there is one federal polytechnic and one state polytechnic. This highlights that Imo State is well-equipped to educate its population and welcomes outsiders who wish to study within the state.
Popular People
1. Samuel Okwaraji
Samuel Okwaraji was a lawyer and professional footballer who represented Nigeria in international football. He gained fame for scoring the fastest goal in the African Cup of Nations held in Morocco in 1988. Okwaraji was born on May 29, 1964, and tragically passed away at the age of 25 after collapsing during a World Cup qualifying match against Angola at the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos, in 1989. Autopsy reports revealed that his death was due to congestive heart failure.
2. Nwankwo Kanu
Nwankwo Kanu is a renowned professional footballer who played for the Nigerian national teams, including the U-17 and senior teams. Internationally, he played for top European clubs, such as:
- Inter Milan (1996–1999)
- Arsenal (1999–2004)
- West Bromwich Albion
- Portsmouth (2006–2012)
Kanu was born on August 1, 1976, and is celebrated for his football achievements, including winning Olympic gold with Nigeria in 1996.
3. Osita Iheme
Osita Iheme is a Nollywood actor, comedian, and film producer, popularly known as Pawpaw after his iconic role in the 2002 movie Aki na Ukwa. He is a household name in Nigerian cinema, with many of his movie scenes becoming trending memes online. Osita was born on February 20, 1982, and holds a Bachelor’s degree.
4. Anayo Onyekwere (Kanayo O. Kanayo)
Anayo Onyekwere, popularly known as Kanayo O. Kanayo, is a celebrated Nigerian actor and lawyer. He is well-known for playing ritualist roles in movies, which have made him a cultural icon. These roles often trend as memes, and comedians frequently feature him in similar parts in their skits. Despite his on-screen persona, Kanayo is a gentleman in real life. He was born on March 1, 1962, and is best known for movies like Family Battle.
5. Rochas Okorocha
Rochas Okorocha is a businessman and Nigerian politician. He served as the governor of Imo State from May 29, 2011, to May 29, 2019, and is currently a serving senator representing Imo West Senatorial District since 2019. Okorocha was born on September 22, 1962 and is recognized for his contributions to politics and education in Imo State.
6. Ada Ehi
Ada Ehi is a Nigerian gospel minister, singer, songwriter, and performing artist. She is known for her powerful ministry and her music, which resonates both in Nigeria and internationally. Some of her popular songs include Only You Jesus, Cheta, I Testify, You Are Able, among others. Ada was born on September 18, 1983.
