Sir Paul Chukwuma, a leading contender in the 2025 Anambra Governorship race under the All Progressives Congress (APC), has called for a more potent synergy between academia and society to drive sustainable development in Africa.
He made the remarks as the keynote speaker at the Hybrid International Conference organised by the Faculty of Management Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. Chukwuma emphasised that Africa’s path to development must be rooted in its realities, with academic research and innovation as the foundation.
Speaking on the theme “Governance and Sustainable Development in Africa: Issues and Strategies,” Mr Paul urged Africa to look inward for solutions to its unique challenges. He stressed the importance of bridging the gap between academic research and industrial application to promote long-term growth.
“We cannot develop properly without looking inwards,” Chukwuma stated, adding that universities should play a more prominent role in addressing industrial problems through research and innovation.
He also touched on the pressing issues affecting Anambra State, particularly the insecurity plaguing the state. According to Chukwuma, no meaningful development can occur without ensuring the safety of lives and property.
“We cannot attain sustainable development under the circumstances we find ourselves in,” he lamented.
Chukwuma further criticised the lack of transparency in the preparations towards the local government elections in Anambra, accusing the state government of manipulation.
He praised the Federal Government for pushing states to address local government issues and warned that neglecting the grassroots would hinder sustainable development.
“If we don’t take care of the grassroots, there won’t be sustainable development,” he emphasised.
He also attacked the Anambra State House of Assembly, criticising repeated amendments to the state’s electoral laws as detrimental to good governance. Chukwuma argued that manipulating legislation for personal gain creates instability and undermines sustainable development.
Regarding taxation, Chukwuma condemned the harsh tax collection methods in Anambra, asserting that such practices are incompatible with sustainable development. He expressed frustration with the state’s cyclical nature of infrastructure development, where successive governments often reconstruct newly built roads without a long-term maintenance plan.
Chukwuma concluded by urging the Southeast states to collaborate on regional infrastructure projects, particularly in electricity and rail transport, drawing inspiration from the decentralisation of these sectors at the federal level.
The conference was attended by the Acting Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Prof. Carol Arinze-Umeobi, former Vice Chancellor Prof. Okechukwu Esimone, and critical members of Chukwuma’s campaign team, including his Director General, Hon. Ifeanyi Ibezi, and Secretary, Barr. CJ Chinwuba.
Faculty members, students, and staff of the university were also present at the event.
