Reliable electricity has been identified as the single most important requirement for positioning Imo State as Nigeria’s leading hub for technology, digital innovation, and the knowledge economy.

The finding emerged from a poll conducted by Imo Skills and Technology Innovation Network, (iSTAIN) across its diverse stakeholders’ network, comprising representatives from government, academia, industry, entrepreneurship, and the wider technology ecosystem.

The poll also acknowledged the significant progress made through the State Government’s Orashi Electricity Project, describing it as an important step towards strengthening the infrastructure required to support innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital economic growth.

The participants in the poll equally canvassed continued expansion of electricity infrastructure across the state to ensure that communities, businesses, educational institutions, and technology hubs can fully participate in the digital economy.

Commenting on the poll,Hon. Meekam Mgbenwelu, Convener of iSTAIN and former Commissioner for Technology Development in Imo State, described it as apt while reaffirming iSTAIN’s commitment to working closely with the Imo State Government and other stakeholders to promote evidence-based policies and initiatives that strengthen the state’s technology ecosystem.

Mgbenwelu said, “the message from our stakeholders is clear. Investments in digital skills, innovation hubs and modern co-working spaces are essential, but reliable electricity remains the primary enabler of a thriving digital economy. Without dependable power, technology infrastructure and human capital cannot achieve their full potential.”

“iSTAIN also recognized the establishment of the Imo Digital City as another significant investment that complements the state’s digital transformation agenda by providing an environment where innovation, collaboration, research, and technology-based enterprises can flourish.

“We also reiterated our commitment to advancing STEM education, supporting entrepreneurship, promoting gender inclusion, and ensuring that young people, women, and underrepresented groups are equipped to participate fully in the opportunities created by the digital economy.”

He further commended the administration of the state governor, Sen. Hope Uzodinma, for prioritizing strategic infrastructure, particularly the Orashi Electricity Project, saying that, “the project represents an important milestone in strengthening electricity supply within the state.”

“We commend His Excellency for this bold investment and respectfully encourage the continued expansion of the project so that communities across Imo State can equally benefit from reliable electricity. Expanding access to dependable power will create greater opportunities for technology innovation, digital entrepreneurship, remote work, investment, and employment.”