He also cleared ₦1.9 billion for four computer-based test centers in the Orlu zone, aimed at improving UTME candidates’ access to testing.

Governor Hope Uzodimma has approved ₦25 billion for the building of new quarters for judges as part of efforts to provide a conducive environment for them to operate in the state,

The quarters will consist of 40 standard duplexes complete with recreational facilities.

The Commissioner for Information, Public Orientation and Strategy, Declan Emelumba, disclosed this at the end of Monday’s State Executive Council presided over by the governor.

He said that apart from the judges’ quarters, the council also approved ₦1.9 billion for the establishment of four computer-based test centres in the Orlu zone to enhance access to JAMB candidates.

Emelumba said that ₦900 million would be released immediately to commence work at pilot centres in Bishop Shanahan Secondary School and Community Secondary School, Omuma.

He announced that the council further approved the establishment of Imo Signage Asset Management Limited to regulate and deploy smart digital billboards through a public-private partnership.

The commissioner also announced that Governor Uzodimma used the occasion to swear in Longers Anyanwu as the new Commissioner for Agriculture, while the council directed immediate action to ensure that the erosion menace is curbed in the state.

Elaborating on the setting up of the Signage Asset Management Limited, the Commissioner for Digital Economy, Chimezie Amadi, said the initiative would be financed by private investors “at no cost to the Imo State Government,” adding that Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled infrastructure would support a modern, digitally managed signage ecosystem.

Responding after his swearing-in as a commissioner, Longers Anyanwu thanked the governor for finding him worthy to join the league of the APC winning team in the state and pledged to key into the programme of the government and make contributions that will be impactful to Imo people.