The Imo State Council of Elders at the weekend, organized a grand reception in honour of two of their sons, Engr. Charles Ugwu and Barr. Chuka Udom who are Ministers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The occasion which took place at the Imo Concord Hotel Owerri attracted the elites and stakeholders of the state who came to celebrate with Ugwu and Odom – the Minister of Commerce and Industry and Minister of state for Environment respectively.

Speaking at the occasion, the Imo State Governor, Chief Ikedi Ohakim expressed joy that Imo has started enjoying greater dividends from the Federal Government and thanked President Umar Musa Yar’Adua for allotting the state two ministerial appointments.

Gov. Ohakim gave assurance that his administration will work in synergy with the Hon. Ministers to deliver happiness to Imo people, and challenged the elite to contribute to the service of Imo people rather than deprive them of their wealth and resources.

Chief Ohakim reminded Imo people of the dangers of bickering and fighting one another, and urged all to support those in authority rather than try to pull them down to their antics.
He observed that “emphasis on political party has remained an impediment in Nigeria” and called on all public office holders not to lose sight of their mission as a result of political inclinations.

Earlier, the Chairman Imo State Council of Elders, Chief I.D. Nwoga described the appointment of two ministers from Imo State as a sign of better things happening in the State.
He noted that the reception in honour of the ministers provided an opportunity for bonding between them and the State.

Chief Nwoga congratulated the ministers on their appointment and urged them to partner with Governor Ohakim in realizing the New Face of Imo Vision.
Responding, the Minister of Commerce and Industry, Engr. Charles Ugwu and the Minister of State for Environment, Udom both expressed joy at the honour accorded them by the Imo Council of Elders and hoped that the event would be used to heal wounds created by the April 2007 elections.

They pledged to add value to the social and economic system of the State through their offices and called for the support of the people.
While commending the vision and programmes of Governor Ohakim, the ministers gave assurance that they would partner with the governor to realize his vision for the State.