By Tony Okafor
Paul Chukwuma, a chieftain and former National Auditor of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has officially declared his intention to run for the 2025 governorship election in Anambra State under the APC platform.
Our team had the privilege of sitting down with Chukwuma in his hometown, Umueri, Anambra East Local Government Area, where he shared his vision and aspirations for the state.
As he stepped into the conference room, Chukwuma emptied his heart, sharing his story of humble beginnings with his audience.
With a mix of nostalgia and gratitude, he spoke about his father’s sacrifice, who gave up his gratuity to the church.
Chukwuma also shared about his training in the seminary school, which has had a profound impact on his life.
In a lighthearted moment, Chukwuma jokingly revealed that he declined from becoming a priest to enable him to fight poverty and raise his own family.
He humorously added that the vow of chastity and poverty scared him away from his priesthood ambition. However, he vowed that in his next life, he would want to undergo such training again, highlighting the profound impact it has had on his life.
What struck us most about Chukwuma was his passion for Anambra and its people, as well as his humility and accessibility.
When we met him at his conference room, he apologized for his lateness, demonstrating a rare quality in Nigerian politics – accountability.
This simple gesture spoke volumes about his character and willingness to listen.
As we conversed, we were convinced by Chukwuma’s logic and passion for Anambra. The ex-Seminarian and Pro-Chancellor of Olivia University, Burundi, emphasized his commitment to addressing the pressing issues affecting Anambra, including insecurity, infrastructural challenges, unemployment, and socio-economic problems.
He believes his expertise in business and economics will enable him to efficiently manage the state’s resources for the benefit of its people.
“Insecurity is a major challenge facing Anambra State today,” Chukwuma noted. “As governor, I will make security my top priority. I will ensure that every citizen of Anambra can sleep peacefully, without fear of kidnappers, armed robbers, or other security threats.”
Chukwuma also stressed the need for massive infrastructure development in the state. “Anambra State is in dire need of infrastructure development,” he said. “Our roads are bad, our schools are in shambles, and our healthcare system is inadequate.
As governor, I will make sure that we invest heavily in infrastructure development, to create an environment that is conducive to business and economic growth.”
Our conversation also touched on the state of Anambra’s economy. Chukwuma pointed out that despite having some of the wealthiest men in Nigeria, many are hesitant to invest in the state due to the lack of security and assurance.
He emphasized the need to tackle these issues head-on and create an environment conducive to investment and growth.
“Anambra State has the potential to be one of the most economically vibrant states in Nigeria,” Chukwuma said. “But we need to create an environment that is conducive to business and economic growth. As governor, I will make sure that we invest in infrastructure development, provide incentives for investors, and create a business-friendly environment that will attract investors and create jobs for our people.”
Chukwuma also spoke about his plans to address the issue of unemployment in the state. “Unemployment is a major challenge facing Anambra State today,” he said. “As governor, I will make sure that we create jobs for our people. We will invest in agriculture, manufacturing, and other sectors that have the potential to create jobs and stimulate economic growth.”
Regarding rotation and zoning arrangements for the governorship slot in the state, Chukwuma reiterated that the people of Anambra have no agreement on zoning or rotation of power for the governorship seat.
He stated that the propaganda of zoning is being propagated by the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) to deceive the people and maintain their hold on power.
Chukwuma emphasized that his party, the APC, has not agreed to such power-sharing formula and is poised to take over power in the next governorship election.
As we concluded our conversation, it was clear that Paul Chukwuma is a man on a mission. With his impressive educational background, business acumen, and commitment to public service, he may just be the leader Anambra needs to turn things around.
His message of hope and change is one that deserves to be heard.
