The National Vice Chairman (South East) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Ijeomah Arodiogbu, has described the Imo Digital City as a transformative initiative that is nurturing the next generation of global technology leaders, saying Governor Hope Uzodinma is “raising the next Mark Zuckerberg” through deliberate investments in digital innovation and youth empowerment.

Dr. Arodiogbu said the Imo Digital City has emerged as one of Nigeria’s foremost technology and innovation hubs, equipping young Nigerians with world-class digital skills required to compete in the rapidly evolving global digital economy.

He noted that through the SkillUp Imo programme, more than 75,000 youths have been trained in software engineering, artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, cloud computing, cybersecurity, data analytics, and other emerging technologies, positioning them for opportunities in the global technology ecosystem.

Dr. Arodiogbu stated that the facility also boasts a digital device assembly plant with the capacity to assemble up to 1,000 smartphones daily, alongside state-of-the-art innovation laboratories where startups are developing technology-driven solutions for education, healthcare, security, transportation, agriculture, and other critical sectors of the economy.

The APC National Vice Chairman said that the project reflects Governor Uzodinma’s vision of building a knowledge-driven economy anchored on innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital transformation.

“Governor Hope Uzodinma is not only constructing physical infrastructure; he is building human capital. By investing massively in technology, digital education, and innovation, he is creating an environment where the next Mark Zuckerberg and other globally competitive technology entrepreneurs can emerge from Imo State,” he said.

He further described Imo State as a model for other states across the federation, noting that the state’s commitment to digital development demonstrates what visionary leadership can achieve.

According to Dr. Arodiogbu, as Chairman of the Progressives Governors’ Forum (PGF), Governor Uzodinma has continued to provide exemplary leadership by championing initiatives that empower young people, stimulate enterprise, attract investment, and create sustainable employment opportunities.

He urged other state governments to emulate the Imo Digital City model by prioritising investments in technology, innovation, and digital skills development, stressing that such initiatives remain critical to Nigeria’s economic diversification and global competitiveness.

Dr. Arodiogbu expressed confidence that the Imo Digital City would continue to produce globally competitive innovators, entrepreneurs, and technology professionals, further positioning Imo State and the South-East as leading destinations for digital innovation and enterprise in Africa.