The Federal Government has lauded the expansion of the Imo State economy through the Orashi Free Trade Zone project embarked upon by the Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma.

The Vice President described the Oguta/Orashi project as the "game changer for Imo State, Nigeria, and the West Coast of Africa."

He further disclosed that it is one of a kind project with benefits that have always been glaring.

According to the Vice President, we all owe Governor Hope Uzodimma gratitude for bringing hope to our Nation and sub-region.

He urged the Governor to keep up the excellent work in attracting more development for the State and the Nation through his purpose-driven governance and leadership.

The Vice President disclosed that the project would fulfill the promise of radical sea route transformation from Imo State to the Atlantic Ocean, which will benefit not only the State's economy but the economy of the South-East, the Nation, the region, and all people.

Imo state Governor speaks

In his address, the Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, expressed confidence and optimism for the economic boom through the project's full realization. According to him, this project alone can make the South-East region a robust, self-sufficient economy.

The Governor added that the project would checkmate Crude Oil thefts and illegal bunkers, saving the State and the Nation's collective wealth.

Uzodimma lauds Buhari's approval

The Governor also commended President Muhammadu Buhari for many generous acts, especially this recent approval for declaring the Orashi River as an Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone and the proposed Sea route from Orashi River, Degema, to the Atlantic Ocean.

He also appreciated the Vice President for being part of the joyous celebration with Ndi Imo. He further promised that the Shared Prosperity administration would establish industrial clusters around the region, especially industries that will use the Gas deposits in the State, which will additionally trigger industrial development.