...As Organization set to embark on massive empowerment
The Deputy Governor of Imo State, Her Excellency, Lady Chinyere Ihuoma Ekomaru, PhD, on Tuesday received members of Rotary International, District 9142, on a courtesy visit to her office at Government House, Owerri, where she pledged the state government’s continued support for the organisation’s humanitarian activities.
Lady Ekomaru expressed delight at Rotary International’s commitment to humanitarian service, describing it as a leading charity organisation globally. She noted that her husband, His Excellency, Chief Chukwuma Ekomaru, SAN, is a Paul Harris Fellow, and urged Rotarians to uphold the organisation’s Four-Way Test, which promotes truth, fairness, goodwill and mutual benefit.
The Deputy Governor highlighted the achievements of the 3R Administration under Governor Hope Uzodimma, CON, citing investments in road infrastructure, the renovation of health centres, the construction of ultramodern hospitals, the free health insurance scheme, improved security and electricity. She maintained that the administration had repositioned Imo State after years of developmental challenges.
She encouraged Rotary International, District 9142, to collaborate with relevant state ministries and agencies to achieve greater impact, assuring the organisation of the government’s support and commitment to creating an enabling environment for businesses and humanitarian initiatives to thrive. She also pledged her willingness to work with the organisation in areas of mutual interest.
Earlier, the District Governor, Rotarian Chibuzor Asoqwa, thanked the Deputy Governor for the warm reception and explained that District 9142 covers seven states: Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, Imo, Akwa Ibom and Cross River.
He noted that the District had operated in its current form for 10 years, with its activities anchored on trust, goodwill, fellowship and humanitarian service.
Rotarian Asoqwa highlighted the District’s interventions, particularly its contributions to the fight against polio. He disclosed that Imo State would host activities for the forthcoming Rotary year under the theme “Great Lasting Impact.”
He further revealed that the District had undertaken a malaria project in Imo State and, in September 2026, implemented initiatives to complement government efforts, including the renovation of schools and the distribution of school bags and other educational materials to pupils.
According to him, the District would also embark on an economic empowerment programme for women on Wednesday, October 21, 2026. Activities to mark World Polio Day on October 24 would include discussions on the challenges and prospects of polio eradication, vaccination of children at designated health centres and hospitals, an advocacy walk in Owerri and a dinner.
The District Governor commended the Imo State Government under Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma for its transformation agenda, particularly the improved road network, developments in the health sector and the installation of streetlights across the state. He also appreciated the Deputy Governor for her continued support for Rotary International and its members.
The visit featured the decoration of Lady Ekomaru with Rotary International’s insignia, including its crest and apron, as well as the presentation of a souvenir and a copy of the organisation’s Four-Way Test.