Chief Perry Opara, Chief Political Adviser and Head of Political Bureau to the Imo State Government, has congratulated the people of Imo State on the successful take-off of the first-ever international flight from the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, describing it as a milestone for the Southeast and a symbol of the state’s growing national relevance.
Addressing journalists during the occasion, of official flaging-off of the airlifting of Muslim pilgrims from Imo to the Holy Land. He noted with pride that the maiden international flight, operated by Air Peace, would carry pilgrims directly from Owerri to Mecca and Medina, marking a historic first for the region.
“This is a landmark achievement, and I congratulate the people of Imo State and His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, for this great milestone,” Opara said. “What we witnessed today is the inauguration of the airlifting of pilgrims yet the significance of that first international flight cannot be overstated.”
“Governor Uzodimma is that rare leader who creates vision, drives execution, and defends progress. As the political atmosphere in Nigeria evolves, Imo is lucky to have a him as a governor Opara added.
The ceremony, held at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, was attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar. Together, they participated in the flag-off of the Hajj pilgrimage airlifting and commissioned some completed road projects within the state.
Chief Opara also applauded the Governor’s infrastructural strides, saying the roads linking Owerri, Okigwe, and Orlu zones have transformed mobility, commerce, and community life. “Our roads now pass the acid test literally. The quality and durability speak volumes about the kind of leadership we have,” he said.
While highlighting the importance of continuous engagement between the government and the people, Chief Opara emphasised that the Political Bureau will remain committed to promoting inclusive governance, feedback mechanisms, and grassroots participation.
“This flight may be about pilgrims today, but tomorrow it will be goods, investors, and tourists. We are writing a new chapter in the economic life of Imo,” Opara concluded.
The event was not only a moment of religious significance but also a historic step toward the global integration of Imo State. With the airport now officially opened for international air traffic, a new phase of economic possibilities is unfolding in the Southeast.
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