The Imo State Commissioner for Finance and Coordinating Economy, Hon. Chuck Chukwuemeka, has said that the State is experiencing a surge in economic activities with the ongoing 2026 National Council on Finance and Economic Development (NACOFED) retreat in Owerri.
The event is a critical strategic platform for shaping fiscal policies aimed at driving national economic growth and improving the livelihoods of everyday Nigerians.
Speaking on the significance of the five-day high-level gathering in Owerri (August 16-20), Chukwuemeka emphasised that the retreat which had brought together key decision-makers—including Finance Commissioners and Accountants-General from all 36 states, alongside heads of revenue-generating agencies had added in boosting the already existing social and economic services in Imo State.
The Commissioner said: “Hosting the prestigious national conference has also delivered an immediate economic shot in the arm for Imo State. Over 300 delegates arrived ahead of the event, driving a notable surge in local commerce and service sectors.
“The economic impact cannot easily be quantified because you have over 300 people that actually descended into Imo since Saturday.”
The Commissioner further highlighted the massive boost to local hoteliers, restaurateurs, transportation providers, and allied small businesses.
He added that the visiting delegates have expressed high satisfaction with the State’s current trajectory, praising the visible achievements in infrastructure, security, and hospitality infrastructure under the leadership of Governor Hope Uzodimma.
Chuckuemeka also used the opportunity to commend Governor Uzodimma for enabling the seamless execution of the conference.
He noted that successfully hosting an event of such scale reinforces Imo State’s growing reputation as a top-tier destination for major corporate and government conferences, sending a clear message that the State is open for business and investment.
The Retreat entered its third Session on Tuesday as participants dissolved into committees to evaluate current fiscal and financial policies as they relate to their operations.
Governor Uzodimma and the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of Economy, Prof. Taiwo Oyedele, had declared the retreat open on Monday at the Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Convention Centre Owerri.
