Paul Chukwuma Pledges N200Bn to Revive Igba Boi, Rebuild Anambra Economy
The governorship candidate of the Young Progressives Party in Anambra State in the forthcoming election, Sir Paul Chukwuma addressing academics in Anambra State on his plans on Tuesday
Sir Paul Chukwuma, the governorship candidate of the Young Progressives Party (YPP) in Anambra State, has pledged to allocate N200 billion to revamp the traditional Igba Boi apprenticeship system, which he described as a cornerstone of the state’s historic economic strength.
Speaking on Tuesday during the event titled “Academics for a Better Anambra”, a midday interaction with scholars from higher institutions across the state held at the ASUU Secretariat of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Chukwuma outlined a vision centered on practical skill acquisition and entrepreneurship development rather than an overemphasis on academic qualifications without market-relevant skills.
According to him, his administration will reintroduce and modernize the Igba Boi system, integrating it into the broader economic framework of the state.
“If elected, I will initiate a comprehensive N200 billion apprenticeship empowerment scheme aimed at reinvigorating the Igba Boi model. Markets like Onitsha Main Market and Nkwo Nnewi have served as real-life universities, empowering thousands. We will build on that legacy,” Chukwuma said.
He further stated that under his government, young Ndi Anambra who complete their apprenticeship programs will be eligible to access start-up capital, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to the local economy.
“The funds will serve as revolving capital, not handouts. Beneficiaries will access loans to establish their businesses and are expected to repay so others can benefit as well. This will create a sustainable economic cycle,” he explained.
Chukwuma argued that academic qualifications should not be the only criteria for leadership in the state.
He emphasized that experience in managing businesses and people is critical.
“If you’ve never run a business, you have no business leading Anambra State. The state is not a thesis project. It requires real-world management skills,” he said.
He criticized the current state administration for its alleged failure to address widespread insecurity and infrastructure decay.
“Anambra today is in crisis—not because of nature, but because of man-made problems. Insecurity has worsened because the government is not confronting it. If there is no insecurity as the current governor claims, why does he travel with a convoy of security operatives?”he asked.
He promised to overhaul the state’s security architecture by introducing community policing, modern surveillance systems, and collaboration between state-backed security units and federal security agencies.
“We will install CCTV cameras on every street. We will carry out security mapping of the entire state and deploy technology and personnel strategically,” Chukwuma added.
He also alleged that over N200 billion has been received by the Anambra State Government from the federal government in the past three years specifically for security, but claimed the funds have not been used appropriately.
“Security funds are not meant for road construction or salaries. They are for protecting lives and property. The misappropriation of these funds is one reason insecurity is persisting,” he claimed.
Chukwuma vowed to deliver uninterrupted power supply within the first year of his administration, identifying electricity as the “engine room” of economic growth.
He further criticized the neglect of local governments in the state, citing Ayamelum LGA as an example.
“For three years, Ayamelum has been cut off from the rest of Anambra. During a recent visit, our vehicles got stuck. We’ve started palliative measures to reconnect the area and give residents a sense of belonging.”he added.
He promised that under his leadership, local governments will be autonomous and data-driven, with each LGA developing its own citizen database for effective planning and service delivery.
“I’m contesting to return power to the grassroots. Governance has become too centralized and elitist. Anambra does not belong to academics alone; it belongs to all Ndi Anambra,both educated and non educated,” he said.
Chukwuma unveiled his core agenda centered on Human Capital Development, Infrastructure, and Security, arguing that without investing in people, infrastructure alone cannot drive growth.
“You cannot reduce crime without giving young people something meaningful to do. A busy mind is not easily tempted by criminality. Human capital development must come first.”he stated.
He lamented the poor conditions under which students learn and civil servants work, especially teachers who, according to him, are underpaid and undervalued.
“I will make the welfare of teachers a top priority. They are the true engine of progress. Without quality education and motivated educators, our future is at risk.”he stated.
He criticized the current administration’s obsession with rhetoric over results.
“Governance is not about grammar,it’s about action. There’s been too much grammar and too little governance. Anambra belongs to all of us. We must not allow a few to destroy what we have built.” he added.
