Imo community in Israel salutes Uzodimma for Concorde hotel renovation

…Commends Tourism  Ministry for effective supervision

By Fredrick Njoku

The Imo People’s Congress, Israel (IPC), a diaspora-based socio-cultural group of Imolites living in Israel, has commended the Governor of Imo State, His Excellency Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, for the ongoing reconstruction and rehabilitation of the iconic Concorde Hilton in Owerri—formerly known as Concorde Hotel.
Speaking on behalf of the organization, IPC President, Mazi Obinna Kingsley Ike, described the Governor’s intervention as “visionary, timely, and a catalyst for economic rejuvenation in the state.” He noted that the Concorde Hotel, once a crown jewel of the South East, had fallen into disrepair but is now on the path to restoration thanks to the current administration’s bold action. “We had begun engaging potential investors in Israel who were interested in supporting the revitalization of Concorde Hotel. But to our pleasant surprise, His Excellency took the initiative himself. That kind of foresight deserves not just recognition but applause,” Mazi Ike said.
Mazi Ike emphasized that although Imolites in Israel are far from home, their hearts remain closely tied to the progress and prosperity of Imo State. “As citizens living in the diaspora, our minds are constantly on home. The love for our state and heritage never fades. We had genuine concerns over the state of infrastructure in Imo, especially the once-glorious Concorde Hotel. This hotel was a legacy of the revered Governor Sam Mbakwe, and its revival is a matter of pride to every Imolite.”
The group praised Governor Uzodimma for reappointing Barrister Jerry Egemba as the Honourable Commissioner for Tourism, Hospitality and Culture, describing him as “a tireless, committed technocrat” whose leadership and vision continue to add value to the state’s development efforts. “The Governor made a wise and strategic choice in appointing Barr. Egemba again. He is someone who fits the role perfectly and understands the demands of the ministry. Under his watch, we are seeing tangible results,” the IPC noted.
The forum specifically lauded the Governor’s directive placing the Ministry of Tourism, Hospitality and Culture in charge of supervising the Concorde Hotel’s renovation project. “This is the first time in the history of Imo State that such a significant infrastructure project is being directly overseen by the relevant ministry. It shows seriousness and a clear alignment with the Shared Prosperity vision.”
The IPC expressed appreciation to the Governor for other landmark initiatives in the tourism and cultural sectors, such as the reconstruction of the Imo International Conference Centre (IICC), now renamed the Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu Conference Centre, and efforts to immortalize notable cultural icons like Dr. Sam Mbakwe and Engr. Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.
Additionally, the group commended the Governor for his support in organizing the Ahiajoku Lecture Series, scheduled to hold in September 2025, noting the expected economic ripple effect on local businesses, especially vendors, caterers, and service providers. “Events like the Ahiajoku Lecture Series will boost local commerce and create temporary employment for youths. This is how to drive a people-oriented economy,” they stated.
In conclusion, the IPC acknowledged Governor Uzodimma’s impactful road infrastructure projects, including the Owerri-Orlu, Owerri-Okigwe, and Owerri-Mbaise roads, as well as the Assumpta Cathedral Flyover Bridge, describing them as critical arteries for regional connectivity and economic growth