Imo State Community Europe is a voluntary association of Imo indigenes and associations residing across the European continent and the United Kingdom.
Imo State Community Europe originated from the resolution of the Imo State Union in the United Kingdom to embrace other citizens of Imo state across the European continental shelf and pursue identified noble aims and objectives.
It was identified that Imo Diasporas in Europe constitute a formidable force in terms of most particularly skilled manpower and financial capacity and this translates into their enviable position as one of the mainstays of the economic and social existence of Imo state in Nigeria. The political contribution of the European Imo Diasporas to the governance of our home state is yet to be impactful.
It was therefore found necessary to create Imo State Community Europe as an umbrella platform to mobilise and constructively channel Diaspora potentials in terms of ideas and resources for the good interest of Imo state, Nigeria. It also serves as a bridge between Imo Diasporas in Europe and home leadership.
As part of this vision, in 2018 Imo State Union UK invited some countries namely, Sweden, Norway, Switzerland, Italy, Netherlands, Austria, Greece and Germany to a political conference organised in London. The conference which was held on the 21 July 2018 attracted notable political and religious leaders, amongst whom were Chief Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, The Most Rev, Bennett Okoro, Archbishop, Anglican province of Owerri, His Excellency Dr Ikedi Ohakim, Former Executive Governor of Imo State, Senator Athan Achonu; and others.
Furthermore, as part of its programme of activities to engage with our kits and kin in Imo State in preparation for the 2019 elections, the association organised a successful gubernatorial debate, the first of its kind in Owerri on the 7th of January 2019. Candidates of all major political parties contesting the election attended the debate, amongst whom were Rt. Hon. Sir Emeka Ihedioha, PDP; Sir Okey Eze, SDP; Mr. Linus Okoro, YPP and a host of others.
The main objectives of the association are:
To promote welfare of Imo State Indigenes in Europe and to work in collaboration with other organisations in Europe.
To develop black and minority (BME) entrepreneurs
To promote skills and knowledge developments
To act as a channel of communication between Imo State Indigenes in Europe and Imo State and
To promote political enlightenment