Uzodimma Commends Zion Ministry, Pledges Continued Support for Religious Tourism in Imo
E-ISSN: 2354-4481
By George Gentle Ifeanyi
Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, has commended the Zion Prayer Movement Outreach (ZPMO) for its contributions to the spiritual, economic and social development of the state.
Uzodimma made the remarks on Sunday, August 23, 2026, when he joined worshippers at Zion City, Mgbichi, in Ngor Okpala Local Government Area, for the grand finale of the ministry’s Annual World Conference and Global Crusade of Miraculous Takeover.
The governor said he was delighted when the ministry approached the Imo State Government seeking support as it prepared to establish its permanent headquarters in the state, explaining that his administration considered the broader public interest attached to the project.
According to him, the scale of development already achieved at Zion City demonstrated the wisdom behind the government’s decision to provide an enabling environment for the ministry to establish its permanent base in Imo.
Uzodimma praised the Spiritual Director of Zion Prayer Movement Outreach, Evangelist Chukwuebuka Anozie Obi, for his commitment to his Christian ministry and the spiritual guidance he provides to members of the organisation, popularly known as Zionites.
He noted that the activities of the ministry had gone beyond religious worship, stressing that the growing presence of worshippers and visitors at Zion City was also stimulating commerce, trade and other economic activities within the host community and across Imo State.
The governor said the state government would continue to support initiatives capable of contributing to the development of the state, particularly projects that attract visitors, create economic opportunities and promote Imo as a destination for religious pilgrimage and tourism.
Uzodimma described Imo as one of the peaceful states in Nigeria and expressed optimism that the continued development of Zion City would further enhance the state’s profile as a destination for religious activities.
The governor’s appearance came as thousands of worshippers converged on Zion City for the closing ceremony of the three-day 2026 World Conference, which formed part of the climax of ZPMO’s 100 Days Fasting and Prayer programme.
The Zion Prayer Movement Outreach has in recent years expanded its operations in Imo, with its permanent site in Ngor Okpala witnessing significant infrastructural development.
The ministry’s expansion has also included social welfare projects. In April 2025, Uzodimma commissioned the Seraphic Home, an old people’s home and orphanage established by the ministry at Mgbirichi in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area. The facility provides accommodation and care for vulnerable elderly people and orphans.
The governor had previously expressed support for the ministry’s relocation and establishment in Imo, saying the state stood to benefit from the spiritual and economic activities associated with the organisation.
The development of Zion City has also attracted attention because of the scale of infrastructure being provided at the permanent site. A 2025 inspection report noted ongoing construction and development, including internal roads and other facilities.
At the grand finale, Uzodimma reiterated his administration’s willingness to support the ministry’s successful operations in the state.
The governor’s visit further underscores the growing relationship between the Imo State Government and Zion Prayer Movement Outreach as the ministry continues to develop its permanent base and expand its religious and humanitarian activities.
Some key government officials who joined the governor to the event were Hon. Chief Nnamdi Anayaehe, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Chinasa Nze Nwaneri, Special Adviser to the Governor on Monitoring and Compliance, among others officials.
