Former Governor of old Anambra State, Jim Nwobodo, has been named Chairman of the 15th Chief Emeka Anyaoku Distinguished Lecture Series on Good Governance, scheduled to hold in Owerri, Imo State, on April 9, 2026.
Organisers of the high-profile policy forum said Nwobodo’s selection was based on his “antecedents and track record in governance,” describing him as a fitting figure to lead discussions at the widely respected platform.
The lecture series, held in honour of elder statesman Emeka Anyaoku, has evolved into a major national forum for discourse on governance, leadership, and development, often referred to as Nigeria’s “Ideas Arena.”
In a formal invitation, the Coordinator of the lecture, Ambassador Johnson Ogbonna, highlighted the significance of Nwobodo’s role in this year’s edition.
“Sir, your contributions to good governance represent the needs of our generation; and the entire executives of the Chief Emeka Anyaoku Lecture on Good Governance, the Board of the Youth Affairs International Foundation, and our honoree have collectively agreed that you chair this year’s annual lecture,” Ogbonna wrote.
Organised by the Youth Affairs International Foundation, the annual lecture brings together top political leaders, academics, diplomats, and civil society actors to interrogate critical national issues.
Over the years, the platform has hosted influential voices across Nigeria, with past editions held in cities such as Port Harcourt and Enugu, attracting former heads of state, governors, and policy experts.
The lecture typically focuses on themes including democratic governance, constitutional reforms, national unity, leadership accountability, and economic development, with discussions aimed at shaping Nigeria’s policy direction.
This year’s edition in Owerri is expected to continue that tradition, providing a platform for robust dialogue on strengthening governance in Africa’s most populous nation.
