Governor Hope Uzodimma has extolled the youths in Imo State for rejecting the things that could cause insecurity in the State, saying that their collective efforts against insecurity has contributed in making the State a destination for investment and tourism.

Uzodimma spoke weekend when he joined the youths to flag off their Marathon Race tagged, “Run for Peace,” in Owerri.

The youths in Imo State had embarked on the “Run for Peace” exercise to support the efforts of Governor Uzodimma in promoting peace and security in the state.

The programme which was organised by the Ministry of Youth and Talent Hunt, was formally flagged off by the Governor, some federal and State lawmakers, and other top government officials at the Government House roundabout Owerri, the take off point for the race.

Governor Uzodimma had extolled the efforts of Imo youths in combating insecurity, saying it helped in making Imo State “an attractive destination for investment and tourism.”

Earlier in his remarks while welcoming the Governor to the event, the Commissioner for Youth Development and Talent Hunt, Dr. Emeka Ukaegbu, said that the exercise aims to promote peace within the state.

He used the opportunity to encourage investors to see Imo State as their preferred destination, assuring them that “Imo is safe and provides peaceful environment for business.”

Ukaegbu emphasised that the participation of 2,000 youths in the programme underscores their commitment to peace and their rejection of insecurity.

The Marathon was planned to reward the first female and first male to reach the finish line with the sum of N500,000 each, while consolation prizes will go to the 20 runners up.