APC Chieftain, Paul Chukwuma, Advocates for Academia-Society Synergy

Chinwe Onuigbo, Awka

A prominent contestant in the 2025 Anambra Governorship race under the All Progressives Congress (APC), Sir Paul Chukwuma, has called for a robust collaboration between academia and society to foster sustainable development in Africa.

Chukwuma delivered these remarks as the keynote speaker at the Hybrid International Conference organised by the Faculty of Management Sciences at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State.

He emphasised that Africa’s developmental trajectory must be anchored in its unique realities, with academic research and innovation serving as essential cornerstones.

Addressing the theme “Governance and Sustainable Development in Africa: Issues and Strategies,” Chukwuma urged African nations to seek internal solutions to their distinct challenges. He highlighted the critical need to bridge the divide between academic research and industrial application to stimulate long-term growth.

“We cannot develop adequately without looking inwards,” Chukwuma asserted, advocating for universities to take a more proactive role in solving industrial challenges through targeted research and innovation.

The APC chieftain also addressed pressing concerns in Anambra State, particularly the pervasive issue of insecurity. He underscored that genuine development is unattainable without ensuring the safety and security of lives and property.

Lack of transparency

“We cannot achieve sustainable development in the current circumstances,” he lamented.

Chukwuma criticised the lack of transparency surrounding preparations for local government elections in Anambra, alleging state government manipulation. He commended the Federal Government for pushing states to prioritize local government issues, cautioning that neglecting grassroots development would stymie sustainable progress.

“If we don’t safeguard the grassroots, sustainable development will remain elusive,” he emphasised.

Additionally, he expressed concerns about the Anambra State House of Assembly’s frequent amendments to the state’s electoral laws, labeling these changes as detrimental to good governance.

Chukwuma argued that legislative manipulation for personal gain breeds instability and undermines sustainable development.

On taxation, he denounced the aggressive tax collection methods employed in Anambra, arguing that such practices are fundamentally at odds with sustainable growth.

Cyclical nature

Chukwuma expressed frustration over the cyclical nature of infrastructure development, where successive governments often reconstruct recently completed roads without implementing a long-term maintenance plan.

Chukwuma further urged Southeast states to collaborate on regional infrastructure initiatives, particularly in electricity and rail transport, drawing lessons from the federal government’s decentralization efforts in these sectors.

The conference was attended by distinguished guests, including Acting Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Professor Carol Arinze-Umeobi, and former Vice Chancellor, Professor Okechukwu Esimone. Key members of Chukwuma’s campaign team, including Director General Ifeanyi Ibezi and Secretary Barr. CJ Chinwuba, were also present, alongside faculty members, students, and university staff.

Lateefah Ibrahim