Local Government in Imo State: The 2026 Administrative Directory
Imo State, the "Eastern Heartland," is structured into 27 Local Government Areas (LGAs) grouped into three senatorial districts: Owerri (East), Orlu (West), and Okigwe (North).
In 2026, governance has shifted toward decentralized industrialization. Under Governor Hope Uzodimma, the 1.4 Trillion Naira "Budget of Economic Breakthrough" has prioritized the Urashi Special Energy Zone, turning several LGAs into international hubs for gas and agro-processing.
Full List of the 27 Local Government Areas in Imo State
The 27 LGAs are the primary administrative units responsible for grassroots development, primary health, and local infrastructure.
| S/N | LGA | Headquarters | Senatorial District |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Aboh Mbaise | Aboh | Owerri (East) |
| 2 | Ahiazu Mbaise | Afo Oru | Owerri (East) |
| 3 | Ehime Mbano | Ehime | Okigwe (North) |
| 4 | Ezinihitte Mbaise | Itu | Owerri (East) |
| 5 | Ideato North | Urualla | Orlu (West) |
| 6 | Ideato South | Dikenafai | Orlu (West) |
| 7 | Ihitte/Uboma | Isinweke | Okigwe (North) |
| 8 | Ikeduru | Iho | Owerri (East) |
| 9 | Isiala Mbano | Umuelemai | Okigwe (North) |
| 10 | Isu | Umundugba | Orlu (West) |
| 11 | Mbaitoli | Nwaorieubi | Owerri (East) |
| 12 | Ngor Okpala | Umuneke | Owerri (East) |
| 13 | Njaba | Nnenasa | Orlu (West) |
| 14 | Nkwerre | Nkwerre | Orlu (West) |
| 15 | Nwangele | Amaigbo | Orlu (West) |
| 16 | Obowo | Otoko | Okigwe (North) |
| 17 | Oguta | Oguta | Orlu (West) |
| 18 | Ohaji/Egbema | Mmahu-Egbema | Orlu (West) |
| 19 | Okigwe | Okigwe Town | Okigwe (North) |
| 20 | Onuimo | Okwe | Okigwe (North) |
| 21 | Orlu | Orlu Town | Orlu (West) |
| 22 | Orsu | Awo Idemili | Orlu (West) |
| 23 | Oru East | Omuma | Orlu (West) |
| 24 | Oru West | Mgbidi | Orlu (West) |
| 25 | Owerri Municipal | Owerri City | Owerri (East) |
| 26 | Owerri North | Orie Uratta | Owerri (East) |
| 27 | Owerri West | Umuguma | Owerri (East) |
*Official 2026 administrative data for the Eastern Heartland. Source: Imo State Ministry of Local Government & Chieftaincy Affairs.
2026 Economic Strategic Hubs
In 2026, three LGAs have emerged as the "Industrial Triangle" of Imo State:
Ohaji/Egbema (Assa North): Following the 2026 Gas Master Plan, this LGA hosts the ANOH gas project, feeding the OB3 pipeline and serving as a major energy hub.
Oguta (Izombe): Home to the Orashi Special Energy Zone, focusing on gas-to-power projects and industrial manufacturing.
Oru East (Omuma): Designated as the "Digital City," hosting the Imo State University of Innovation, Science, and Technology, which serves as the state’s tech engine room.
Imo State Local Government FAQ
Who is the Governor of Imo State in 2026? The Executive Governor is Senator Hope Uzodimma, who is currently implementing the 2026 "Budget of Economic Breakthrough."
What is the capital of Imo State? The capital is Owerri, which is comprised of three LGAs: Owerri Municipal, Owerri North, and Owerri West.
Which LGA is the largest oil producer in Imo? Ohaji/Egbema and Oguta are the primary oil and gas-producing LGAs, contributing significantly to the state's 13% derivation revenue.
2026 Update: The Urashi Industrial Corridor
Imo State has leveraged its 200 trillion cubic feet of gas reserves to create the Urashi Energy Zone. LGAs like Oguta and Ohaji/Egbema are now the lowest-tariff industrial zones in West Africa as of early 2026.
