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NSUKKA, ENUGU STATE — The Director of the Institute of African Studies (IAS), University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Professor Tochukwu Omenma, has appealed to dignitaries, partners and stakeholders to support the institute’s infrastructural development and research capacity.
Omenma made the appeal recently during the 7th Chinua Achebe International Conference organised by the Institute of African Studies at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
He identified the provision of a high-capacity borehole, desktop computers for the institute’s library and air-conditioning facilities as some of the immediate needs requiring intervention.
According to him, “We require a high-breed borehole to supply us water. Our library lacks desktop computers to aid students’ research and air conditioners. We plead with you to use your good offices to assist us in these areas.”
The director expressed appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria for his support for the institute’s academic and research activities, as well as ongoing infrastructural improvements across the university.
He specifically commended the road construction projects within the institution, noting that the improved road network was contributing to a conducive environment for intellectual engagement, teaching, learning and scholarship.
Welcoming participants to the conference, Omenma described the gathering as an important platform for scholars, policymakers, practitioners, civil society actors and students to examine critical issues affecting Africa’s development.
He acknowledged the presence and contributions of distinguished guests, including the Deputy Governor of Cross River State, members of the National Assembly, the keynote speaker, panelists, the royal father of the day and other invited dignitaries.
The director said their participation had enriched the deliberations and underscored the importance of sustained conversations around development and democracy in Africa.
He also expressed appreciation to collaborating institutions, including the University of Chicago, the University of Fort Hare, Dominican University and other partner organisations, for supporting academic exchange and making the conference possible.
Omenma further acknowledged Professor James A. Robinson, the 2024 Nobel Prize recipient, for his support for research and scholarly initiatives in Igbo land.
In his goodwill message, the Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, commended the Institute of African Studies for sustaining the Chinua Achebe International Conference over the past seven years.
Although he was unable to attend the event physically, Odey conveyed his goodwill and congratulated the institute for its consistency, vision and commitment to advancing conversations on development, democracy and leadership in Africa.
He described the conference as timely, particularly at a period when African countries are seeking pathways towards inclusive economic growth, accountable governance and transformative leadership.
Odey also commended the choice of the conference theme, describing it as bold, thought-provoking and relevant to the continent’s contemporary realities.
He said the theme provided an opportunity to reflect on the changing nature of democracy in Africa and examine ways of making democratic governance more responsive to the aspirations, realities and developmental needs of citizens.
According to him, meaningful development in Africa would require governments to move beyond rhetoric and embrace visionary, people-centred governance anchored on effective institutions.
He urged participants to draw inspiration from the enduring legacy of Chinua Achebe, whose writings and public interventions emphasised honesty, responsibility and courageous leadership.
Odey expressed optimism that the conference would generate practical recommendations, fresh insights and renewed commitment towards building a more just, united and development-oriented Africa.
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