In an exclusive interview on Chinedu Anichi TV, the newly elected President of the Nsukka Youths General Assembly (NYGA), Ambassador Clinton Ogbonna, laid out his strategic plans for youth empowerment and development in Nsukka Zone. During the interview, Ogbonna called on political stakeholders to invest in the future of Nsukka's youth and outlined his roadmap, which includes facilitating the empowerment of over 3,000 youths and establishing skill acquisition centers within his first year in office. He emphasized collaboration with the government and diaspora engagement to drive sustainable development in the region.
Exclusive Interview with Amb. Clinton Ogbonna on Chinedu Anichi TV: Charging Nsukka Political Stakeholders to Invest in Youth Empowerment
Host: Chinedu Anichi
Chinedu Anichi: Good evening viewers, welcome to this exclusive interview on Chinedu Anichi TV. Today, we have the newly elected President of the Nsukka Youths General Assembly (NYGA), Ambassador Clinton Ogbonna, who will be discussing his plans for youth empowerment and his vision for Nsukka. Welcome, Ambassador Clinton.
Amb. Clinton Ogbonna: Thank you very much, Chinedu. It’s a pleasure to be here.
Chinedu Anichi: Ambassador Clinton, many were surprised when you decided to return to contest for the presidency of NYGA after announcing your retirement from mainstream politics. What motivated this decision?
Amb. Clinton Ogbonna: Well, you are right; I did retire from mainstream politics. However, the needs of our community, especially the youth, cannot be ignored. Nsukka youths need to have a voice, and that void is what brought me back. I saw that things were not going as they should, and there is a critical need to fix our land. This was not a decision I made lightly, but I believe it’s time for us to redefine leadership and provide the younger generation with the tools they need to thrive.
Chinedu Anichi: Speaking of leadership, there’s been speculation that your leadership might pose a challenge to the government. Some say you are coming to power to give the government a run for its money. What’s your response to this?
Amb. Clinton Ogbonna: (Laughs) Let me make it clear: we are not here to fight the government. We are here to collaborate with the government. The goal is not to oppose but to work together to move Nsukka and Enugu North forward. I am not faulting the government's policies, but we need better consultation, and we want to ensure that the voices of the youth are considered in these policies. Collaboration is key to development.
Chinedu Anichi: That’s a positive approach. Now, let’s talk about your roadmap and vision for the youths. You’ve mentioned skill acquisition and empowerment as key areas. Can you elaborate on your plans?
Amb. Clinton Ogbonna: Certainly. My vision is to position Nsukka youths for state, local, and international recognition. In one year, I aim to empower over 3,000 Nsukka youths through various skill acquisition programs. We have capable men and women of Nsukka origin scattered across the world—in the US, UK, Europe, and Australia. By uniting them and leveraging their expertise, we can empower our youths to survive and excel in the current world.
One of the first major projects I’m working on is the Nsukka Unity Carnival, which will take place on October 26th. This will bring all stakeholders together to appreciate and celebrate our unity. We will also use this platform to educate the youths on the dangers of drug abuse and other social vices.
Additionally, I will establish skill acquisition centers in Nsukka before the end of my first year in office. This will give our young people practical tools to build careers and businesses. I’ve already had discussions with key figures like Chinedu Onyu, the CEO of Ingrace Motors and pioneer of Adada Education Foundation. He has pledged to collaborate with us by rallying 3,000 Nsukka men and women to contribute ₦100,000 each towards youth empowerment in education and skills development.
Chinedu Anichi: That sounds like a well-thought-out plan. You’ve also emphasized the importance of diaspora investment in your speech. Can you tell us more about how you plan to attract Nsukka indigenes abroad to invest back home?
Amb. Clinton Ogbonna: Yes, it’s crucial that our brothers and sisters in the diaspora understand the importance of "Aku Rue Uno," which means bringing wealth home. We want them to think about home, not just in terms of charity but as a long-term investment in the future of our youths. I will be reaching out to them, urging them to invest in skill acquisition, education, and infrastructure that will uplift our community. There’s a lot we can achieve if we unite for this common goal.
For example, there was a Nsukka youth who graduated with a first-class degree in social work from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, but was unable to pursue further studies abroad due to financial constraints. Stories like this should not happen. With diaspora support, we can ensure that talented youths like him are not limited by resources.
Chinedu Anichi: It’s inspiring to hear such plans. Now, let’s talk about youth involvement in politics. What are your general views, especially given the current political climate?
Amb. Clinton Ogbonna: Politics should not be seen as an occupation. Youths need to be careful not to get dragged into being used as political thugs. I encourage every youth to engage in income-generating activities so they can be independent. Political thuggery is something we must avoid, and that era is over. The youths have been shortchanged for too long, but now we are ready to make a difference. We will not compromise.
For clarity, I am no longer a member of any political party. The Nsukka Youths General Assembly is an apolitical entity, and we are ready to work with anyone regardless of political affiliation. Our role will also be to serve as a check on all political representatives of Nsukka, from Senate to the House of Assembly. We will ensure that votes count and that elected officials are accountable to the people.
Chinedu Anichi: Very well said. As we wrap up, what advice do you have for political stakeholders?
Amb. Clinton Ogbonna: My advice to political stakeholders is simple: empower the youths. We don’t ask for much. All we want is development and growth in Nsukka zone. It is your responsibility to ensure that the future of our people is secured, and we will hold you accountable if you fail to deliver. Invest in the youth, and the community will thrive.
Chinedu Anichi: Before we go, let’s touch on a personal project of yours. You were the key figure behind the Nsukka Mega Rally for Peter Obi in 2023. Can you shed more light on that?
Amb. Clinton Ogbonna: Yes, the Nsukka Mega Rally for Peter Obi was a clarion call for good governance. It wasn’t about supporting any one politician; it was about advocating for a better Nigeria, for transparency, and for leadership that serves the people. That’s what we stand for as youths of Nsukka.
Chinedu Anichi: Thank you for your time today, Ambassador Clinton. Lastly, any final words for the youths of Nsukka?
Amb. Clinton Ogbonna: To my fellow youths, I will never take the mandate you’ve given me for granted. I’m here to serve you, and together, we will transform Nsukka for the better. Stay focused, stay united, and let’s build a future we can all be proud of.
Chinedu Anichi: Thank you so much, Ambassador Clinton. It’s been a pleasure having you on the show. We wish you all the best in your tenure as President of the Nsukka Youths General Assembly.
Amb. Clinton Ogbonna: Thank you, Chinedu.
Chinedu Anichi: And that’s it for today’s episode. Thank you for watching. Keep supporting the youths, keep supporting Nsukka.
