The Imo State Government is set to reactivate the Development Centres across the state as a way of further improving on the wellbeing of the rural dwellers.

The decision was reached Wednesday at the State Executive Council meeting where Governor Hope Uzodimma who presided over the session also hinted that the state’s security outfit will be formally launched by November 30.

Briefing newsmen, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Chief Declan Emelumba, flanked by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Chief CO C Akaolisa, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Local Government and Chieftain Affairs, Chief (Mrs.) Ruby Emele, and the Chief Press Secretary and Media Adviser to Governor, Chief Oguwike Nwachuku, said that the number of Development Centres in Imo will be increased from 44 to 50.

According to Emelumba, Council commended the Governor for the initiatives and also supported and approved a supplementary appropriation of N31.9 billion sent to the Imo State House of Assembly for approval.

He said Council lauded the proactive manner the Governor went about dealing with the security challenges that affected activities in Imo State recently and saw reason to seek more funds from the Assembly to enable government deal with extra expenditure incurred as a result of insecurity in the state.

Emelumba said Council regretted that the money which government would have used to attend to more development-oriented matters in the state was diverted to security matters, noted that that is the opportunity cost of insecurity to the people of Imo State which everyone must rise to condemn and assist to contain.

The Commissioner also informed that Council applauded the Governor for approving the rehabilitation and equipping of primary Healthcare Centres in 305 INEC Wards Imo State to address healthcare challenges at the rural areas.

He added that the essence is to allow the rural populace in Imo to enjoy unhindered quality healthcare.

On the Security outfit meant for launching November 30, the Commissioner explained that the Council is confident that it will be a combination of Vigilante and Community Policing model. “The launching has become necessary to check further insecurity and make the Yuletide celebrations comfortable for Imolites both at home and Diaspora.”

According to the Commissioner, when reactivated, the new Development Centers as proposed will have all Town Union Presidents of Communities in Imo State as members. “The essence of this is to allow Communities, through their Town Union Presidents, articulate their needs for the attention of the State Government.”

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