Imo State University was established in 1981 by the old Imo State Government, comprising present-day Imo and Abia States. The recognition of the importance of university education for rapid and sustainable socio-economic development and the absence of a federal university in the State prompted the decision to establish the university. The State had many qualified candidates who could not be admitted into existing universities.

Under the leadership of Chief Sam Mbakwe, the Imo State Government sought and obtained the approval of the Federal Government to establish the university as a liberal studies tertiary institution. The university was initially located in Uturu but was relocated to Owerri in 1992 after the creation of Abia State.

Imo State University is committed to educational development and has played a pivotal role in providing university education for its citizens. A desire for progress and development drives the thirst for knowledge in Imo State, and this forms the basis for the university's vision, mission, philosophy, and objectives.

The university is responsible for producing manpower to accelerate national development and ensure that the Imo people are competitive in the Niger Delta oil-producing area of Nigeria. The university shares this responsibility with the federal university located in the State. As the number of applicants continues to increase, the university must maintain its focus on excellence and quality.

To achieve this goal, the university has developed its mission, vision, and objectives in line with the principles outlined in its strategic plans for 2004-2007, 2012-2015, and 2016-2020.