The Nnamdi Azikiwe University Business School in collaboration with the Anambra Ministry of Industry, Awka/Nnewi/Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, has called for synergy as well as collaboration between the state government, industries and the university so as to achieve improved human and economic development in the state and beyond.
The event which housed notable dignitaries and scholars at the UNIZIK Business School Hall on Tuesday, 31st March, 2026 had its Theme: “Anambra Triple Helix System: University – Industry – Government Alignment”.
Speaking during the quarterly Business Roundtable, Director UNIZIK Business School, Prof. Pius V.C Okoye, in his welcome address, said the synergy and collaboration between the Anambra state government, industries and the university are crucial for driving innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth. “This maiden UBS Quarterly Roundtable is geared towards collaborating with Anambra State Government in consummating the mandate of His Excellency, Prof Charles Chukwuma Soludo towards industrialisation of Anambra State by sensitising industry leaders, small and medium scale enterprise owners, artisans and innovators.”
“This quarter’s theme: Anambra Triple Helix Matrix: University, Industry and Government Alignment is apt. This tripartite model (often called Triple Helix) fosters economic growth by turning research into commercial products, providing students with practical skills, and bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real world market; transforming theoretical research into usable technology and commercial products. It is believed that this collaboration will enable universities to design curricula based on industry needs, providing students with practical hands-on skills, internships, and mentoring that boost employability. The alignment is recognised as crucial for regional economic development, as it fosters an ecosystem where university researchers, entrepreneurs, and established firms share ideas.”
The UNIZIK Business School Director however disclosed that with the collaboration of the Triple Helix, which offers a clear blueprint for inclusive economic growth, sustained commitment and strategic execution, Anambra will not only drive innovation but also secure long-term prosperity for its citizens.
Earlier in his address, the Chief Guest of Honour, Deputy Governor of Anambra State, Dr Onyekachukwu Ibezim while commending the UNIZIK Business School for taking proactive measures, challenged the university authorities to nurture students in such a way that when they graduate they will be able to contribute meaningfully to the development of society. He also called on the university to partner with the government in its vision to build a new Anambra State ranging from areas of construction, health, agriculture, human capital development, among others.
Dr Ibezim however, noted that the idea of establishing the Anambra Incubation Committee which will accommodate the academia, captains of industry and the government should take effect immediately to enable the committee articulate ways of building the state economy with clusters aimed at improving sustainable economic growth, employment and revenue to the state.
Adding, Engr Okafor Emeka, CEO Orbital Creation and founder Orbital Silicon Valley Ltd, disclosed that the state government cannot do it alone but will only achieve greater heights with the partnership of industrialists and the university. “Everything is not about government, Anambra has a lot of billionaires whom you can galvanise to pull funds together to get started. The government-community-individual partnership should be x-rayed and it’s going to work.”
Citing the American revolution and development, Engr Okafor said it’s time for partnership which is the only thing that can make development faster and easier. It’s an alignment and not that talents are lacking. Anambra is blessed with both human resources and finance, all we need to do is come together, partner and then we will move forward.
Speaking to newsmen, former Ambassador to Burundi, Dr Elijah Onyeagba noted that an alignment with the state government, the university and industry could bridge the gap. “We are looking at how our curriculum in the university should be designed to be able to solve the problems of tomorrow as against solving the problems of yesterday. We want a situation where industries can create funding for research and development.”
He stated that part of the policy recommendations from these discussions was to join hands together and improve actions. “Anambra is one of the most urban-based economies in Nigeria and so there is need to introduce innovations and synergy. This is the time to train students with both educational curriculum and practical examples so that once he or she graduates there will be no need to start learning again in the labour market.”
Special dignitaries present were the Chairman of the occasion and former Director General, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Dr Ikem Odumodu and Lead Presenter, Professor of Development Education, Prof Osita Ogbu.
While discussants were former Ambassador to Burundi, Dr Elijah Onyeagba (Lead Discussant), Accountant General to Local Government, Anambra State, Dr Nneoma Muogbo, Chairman Chadon Group of companies, Barrister Chuka Odunukwe.
Others were Special Guests of Honour, the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs Chiamaka Nnake, former Commissioner for Industry, Mr Christian Udechukwu, Chief Executive Officer Lovebite and Beverages Ltd, among others.
