Anambra Philanthropist Launches Universities’ Debate to Deepen National Discourse

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka 

Universities in Anambra State have been invited to participate in the South East Campus Debate, Anambra edition, which offers participating institutions and their students the opportunity to brainstorm on topical issues.

The competition is sponsored by businessman and philanthropist, Chief Ikenna Okafor, through his company, Afrirootz Foods, a food processing industry, and Idi Ezeani Nzekwuabuo Foundation, a charity organisation in memory of his late father, Chief Paulinus Okafor.

Ikenna, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Keves Global Leasing Limited, who briefed journalists on Sunday, said the competition is part of his company corporate social responsibility, while the involvement of his foundation is in fulfillment of his father’s love for education.

“This initiative is designed to encourage students to devote more attention to issues affecting their future and contribute meaningfully to national development.

“These days, entertainment events attract considerable attention, and there is need to create more platforms for students to engage in informed discussions and develop their reasoning abilities.

“Participants will come together, select a topic of their choice and be given the opportunity to brainstorm on them and make their presentation. People argue better on issues they have interest in, and that is why we are making it so,” he said.

Okafor disclosed that nine universities will participate in the maiden edition. The universities are: Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka; Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam; Paul University, Awka; Madonna University, Okija; Tansian University, Umunya; Peter University, Achina-Onneh; University on the Niger, Umunya; Shanahan University, Onitsha; and Legacy University, Okija.

He said the preliminary rounds would hold on October 17 and 18, 2026, while the grand finale is scheduled for October 31.

The debate is being packaged by MacClems Marketing, a brand marketing company founded by ace broadcaster and master of ceremonies, Mr. Chido Obidiegwu.