Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, has approved the construction of judges’ quarters valued at N25bn as part of efforts to improve the welfare of judicial officers in the state.
The governor also approved N1.9bn for the establishment of four computer-based test centres in Orlu Zone and the creation of a smart digital signage system to modernise the state’s infrastructure.
The approvals were announced on Tuesday by the Commissioner for Information, Public Orientation and Strategy, Declan Emelumba, while briefing journalists after the State Executive Council meeting presided over by the governor in Owerri.
Emelumba said the council approved N25bn for the construction of 40 duplexes for judges, alongside recreational facilities.
He said, “The Council approved N25 billion for the construction of 40 duplexes as judges’ quarters, complete with recreational facilities. The project is designed to provide a conducive living environment for judicial officers.”
The commissioner added that the council also approved the establishment of new computer-based test centres and a smart digital signage initiative.
“Also approved are the new computer-based test (CBT) centres and a smart digital signage initiative aimed at modernising infrastructure across the state,” he said.
According to him, the council approved N1.9bn for the establishment of four CBT centres in Orlu Zone to improve access to the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board examinations and other computer-based tests.
He said N900m would be released immediately to commence work at two pilot centres located at Bishop Shanahan Okoye Secondary School and Community Secondary School, Omuma.
Emelumba further disclosed that the council approved the establishment of Imo Signage Asset Management Limited to regulate and deploy smart digital billboards through a public-private partnership.
Speaking on the digital initiatives, the Commissioner for Digital Economy and E-Government, Chimezie Amadi, said the projects would be financed by private investors without financial commitment from the state government.
According to him, the initiative would be funded “at no cost to the Imo State Government,” adding that Internet of Things-enabled infrastructure would support a modern, digitally managed signage ecosystem
