One of the foremost active contender in the Imo State upcoming 2027 Governorship race , Hon. Chief Charles Orie, has approved another clarion call placed on him by Imolites in Paris France to step up and contest for the elevated position to bring home the super quality leadership to improve the state.
At the Paris France conference held on his behalf, Hon Charles Orie accepted the call heartedly and presented his address thus:
Ndi Imo Kwenu!
Distinguished Sons and Daughters of Imo State, Friends, and Well-Wishers from the Diaspora,
I begin by acknowledging the esteemed presence of the Imo State Community in Europe (ICE), ably represented by High Chief Nwalibe, the President, and Dr. Ahams Adom, the Secretary. I also warmly recognize the President of the Imo State Association in France, as well as the Presidents of various Imo State associations across European countries.
In addition, I salute the Diaspora Coordinator of the Imo State Progressives for Change 2027, along with our dedicated Country Coordinators from the USA, UK, Canada, and other parts of Europe.
All protocols duly observed.
Today, I stand before you deeply honored and profoundly humbled by your call for me to lead our beloved Imo State into a new era — one defined by progress, prosperity, and global excellence.
Your invitation is more than a recognition of my past efforts; it is a clarion call for a new kind of leadership — one anchored in integrity, innovation, and international best practices.
I am sincerely grateful for this show of trust. I am especially touched by the unwavering love and support of the Imolite diaspora. Some of you traveled from across the USA, Canada, the UK, and the EU to be here today. Others have joined us virtually from Asia, Australia, and all corners of the globe. Your presence — whether physical or digital — is deeply appreciated.
As someone who has lived in the diaspora, I understand the value of governance rooted in transparency, accountability, and a global mindset.
A Call to Action
Our diaspora community has shown the world what it means to be Imolite — resilient, brilliant, and capable of excellence in any corner of the world.
Now, the time has come to bring that excellence home.
I call upon our technocrats, entrepreneurs, academics, students, and all forward-thinking Imolites to rise to this defining moment. Let us unite to shape the Imo State of our dreams.
Your remittances have long served as a backbone of our economy. The Imo State total diaspora remittances in 2024 was extimated to be about 3 billion dollars . That is no small achievement — you all rock!
But we must remember: no meaningful change comes easy. Yet, with unity, commitment, and a shared vision, we can build an Imo State that commands respect not only in Nigeria, but on the global stage.
Imo: A Work in Progress
Dear brothers and sisters, Imo State is indeed a work in progress. Let us honor the leaders who have laid the foundation:
• His Excellency, Chief Achike Udenwa (1999–2007) laid a strong foundation by establishing the Imo State Secretariat, initiating critical infrastructure projects, and developing residential areas like the Civic Center Estate and Achike Udenwa Estate.
• His Excellency, Governor Ikedi Ohakim (2007–2011) contributed significantly to road infrastructure and urban renewal.
• His Excellency, Governor Rochas Okorocha (2011–2019) opened up Owerri for expansion and ushered in bold, transformative change that still resonates today.
• His Excellency, Governor Hope Uzodinma (2020–present) — my brother, friend, and leader — has built impressively on that legacy. His achievements in road construction, healthcare, and pension reform are noteworthy.
In fact, he was recently honored with the 2024 Vanguard Personality of the Year Award for Good Governance in Infrastructure, a testament to both public and media recognition of his contributions.
Yes, Imo is on the right path. But let us also be candid: the journey is far from over. The true potential of our state is still untapped — and together, we must unlock it.
I have heard your voices loud and clear. I am truly humbled by your overwhelming call for me to join the governorship race. Your trust and encouragement mean more to me than words can express.
However, as we all know, the time for formal political declarations has not yet arrived, in accordance with electoral guidelines. I will wait patiently and respectfully for the appropriate moment to make an official pronouncement.
“The best way to predict the future is to create it.” — Peter Drucker
“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” — Lao Tzu
“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” — African Proverb
Let us go far — together. Let us make history — together.
Ndi Imo Kwenu!
Long Live Imo State!
Long Live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
I Still Remain Your Humble
Hon. (Chief) Charles Orie.
This article is first published today Monday April 14, 2025 by this news platform 9News Nigeria. +234 (0) 80 3685 6526.
