Our Recent Summit, a Panacea for Emancipation of Anioma Youths, Ekwukwo Elvis, National Publicity Secretary, Anioma Youth Forum Worldwide

 Our Recent Summit, a Panacea for Emancipation of Anioma Youths, Ekwukwo Elvis, National Publicity Secretary, Anioma Youth Forum Worldwide 

Ekwukwo Elvis is a Civil Engineer by training as well as the National Publicity Secretary of the Anioma Youth Forum Worldwide. He hails from Ezionum in Ukwuani Local Government Area of Delta State. Ekwukwo in this interview with Anioma Media Influencer, PEN MASTER (Emeka Esogbue) speaks on the recent Anioma Youth Day/Summit which was held in Asaba, Delta State. He also talks about his Ezionum community, Ukwuani in general and offers advice to Anioma youths. Excerpts:

Pen Master: Comrade, you are welcome to this interview. Please let our teeming readers, the world over know you

Ekwukwo: Thank you very much, Pen Master for this opportunity. Well, my name is Ekwukwo Elvis, and I am from Ezionum in Ukwuani Local Government Area of Delta State. I have a background in Civil Engineering and have accumulated over a decade of professional experience in the built environment. My career has given me the opportunity to contribute to the design and execution of a wide range of infrastructural projects, including roads, bridges, buildings, equipment foundations for power installations, and other general construction works. In addition to my professional engagements, I serve as the National Publicity Secretary of Anioma Youth Forum Worldwide (AYF-W), which is the apex youth body of the Anioma Nation. Here, I play an active role in youth mobilization, development and advocacy.

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Pen Master: Thank you so much, Ekwukwo. Just like you just said, you are the National Publicity Secretary of Anioma Youth Forum Worldwide. What can you tell us about this Anioma youth organization?

‎Ekwukwo: Anioma Youth Forum Worldwide, popularly known as AYF-W, is the apex umbrella body for all youths in Anioma land, which comprises the nine Local Government Areas of the Delta North Senatorial District. The Forum was born out of necessity to provide a rallying point for Anioma youths and to serve as a strong platform for amplifying their voices. ‎Prior to its establishment, Anioma youths were scattered across various groups without a unified body. But AYF-W has now bridged that gap by creating a central body that aggregates the views of Anioma youths and communicates them effectively to achieve meaningful goals. The Forum is designed to be inclusive, accommodating youths regardless of political, religious, or cultural differences.

‎Since its inception, AYF-W has continued to play this unifying role for Anioma youths. 

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Pen Master: That's really good to know. However, the last time, your leader, Comrade Nnamdi Ofonye who was interviewed here just like you, he told our readers that the members of your organization are all politicians. He argued that this was so because partisanship was a necessary step to rising to achieve leadership prowess in society. Now, how do you coordinate the views of your members in reaching resolutions given that you share heterogeneous political ideologies?

‎Ekwukwo: (Surprised) Pen Master, before I respond to your question, let me make a clarification. I believe you may have quoted the National President of Anioma Youth Forum Worldwide, Comr. Nnamdi Ofonye, out of context in concluding that all members of the forum are politicians. While it is true that our leadership encourages members to participate actively in politics because it is through politics that the power to drive meaningful change in society can be attained, this does not mean that every member is a politician. Our membership cuts across different spheres of life, including politicians and non-politicians, professionals in both the private and public sectors, as well as individuals from other segments of the Anioma nation. ‎Now, to the question of how we manage divergent political views, the answer lies in what we call the pursuit of the common good. AYF-W prides itself on prioritizing the Anioma common good above other things. This principle guides our resolutions, ensuring that every position we take reflects the best interest of Ndi Anioma, regardless of any individual or political leaning. 

Pen Master: Okay, but let's talk about your Ndokwa youths now. Comrade Ekwukwo, you are from the Ezionum community in Ukwuani Local Government Area of Delta State. Share what you know about this community with us.

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‎Ekwukwo: Yes, like I mentioned earlier, I am a proud son of Ezionum Kingdom. It is a peaceful agrarian community made up of three quarters: Aweka Quarters with five families, Ogbe-Ofu Quarters with four families, and Ogbe-Unuami Quarters with three families, bringing it to a total of twelve families. ‎Traditionally, Ezionum was governed through a system of gerontocracy, where the eldest held leadership. However, the community has since transitioned to a monarchical system headed by the Ezhie of Ezionum Kingdom, a position currently occupied by HRM Comr. Rowland C. Osanwuta, JP. Beyond its governance, Ezionum is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant festivals, the most notable being the Nduku Festival, celebrated every January. ‎

Pen Master: Can we say the same about your youths?

Ekwukwo: Talking about the youths of Ukwuani, I believe we are making significant strides in both the public and private sectors but we still need to raise the bar by taking on greater responsibilities. The era of playing a passive, 'follow-the-leader' role must give way to active participation in leadership. Nation building is not the exclusive preserve of elders. The popular saying that youths are the leaders of tomorrow is now outdated because the truth is, we already have what it takes to lead today. It is time for Ukwuani youths, and indeed Anioma and Delta youths, to take their rightful place in leadership and provide the direction needed for progress in Nigeria.

Pen Master: Your mention of Ezionum system of administration aroused my historical interest. As a model, can you give us a breakdown of this Ezionum monarchy? Is the Ezhie institution rotational among ruling houses? How does the monarch emerge?

Ekwukwo: (Smiling) Well, technically, the kingship is designed to rotate among the three quarters with the Aweka Quarters currently occupying the stool.

Pen Master: Okay, Ekwukwo, from my little knowledge, you are surrounded by Amai, Abbi, Ogume and Aragba communities. Is Ezionum in land dispute with Ogume, your neighbouring community? How peaceful is the Ezhionum community?

‎Ekwukwo: Ezionum is a very peaceful community and has consistently maintained harmonious relationships with its neighbors. Like many other communities, there were disagreements in the past over boundary issues, but those matters have since been resolved. Today, Ezionum enjoys lasting peace and cordial coexistence with all its neighboring communities.

Pen Master: It is a big relief to learn that your boundary disputes are resolved. Now, let us look at the activities of the youths of Ukwuani as a whole. Your critics say your youths depend so much on oil returns from oil related companies for their daily needs. Are your critics justified?

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‎Ekwukwo: (Cuts in) Well, critics are entitled to their opinions, but I do not believe the activities of oil companies operating in Ukwuani have contributed meaningfully to improving the lives of our teeming youths. To suggest that Ukwuani youths depend on oil-related activities for survival is a sweeping generalization taken too far. How many of our youths are truly benefitting directly or indirectly from these companies? If the figures were properly examined, the number would prove grossly insignificant. ‎I want to use this medium to call on all oil companies operating in Ukwuani to create more opportunities for our youths. They should deliberately accommodate Ukwuani youths and provide training in critical areas of oil and gas operations, so that our young people can acquire the skills and opportunities needed to thrive.

Pen Master:. ..but have there been reports of conflicts between your youths and these companies? 

‎Ekwukwo:. (Cuts in) ..I would say this: you cannot completely take away agitations from host communities seeking better treatment from oil companies. However, our communities have always been diplomatic in their engagements. We do not adopt violence as a tool for negotiation. Instead, we consistently make calls for fair treatment in line with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and the local content policy.

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Pen Master: Alright, Ekwukwo, you must be an old member of the Anioma Youth Forum. Can you tell us how this youth organization started? 

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‎Ekwukwo: Yes, I have been an old member of the Anioma Youth Forum Worldwide. The vision for a central rallying point for all Anioma youths was first conceived by Comr. Nnamdi Ofonye, who later brought in a few others that believed in the idea. From what started as the 'Anioma Youth Mandate,' it eventually metamorphosed into Anioma Youth Forum Worldwide due to challenges encountered during registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission. ‎The journey has had its ups and downs, but today, Anioma Youth Forum Worldwide has firmly established itself as the umbrella platform that represents and accommodates every Anioma son and daughter.

Pen Master: So, finally, you had your 2025 Anioma Youth Day/Summit in Asaba, your biggest project for the year, thus far. Congratulations! Now, Comrade Ekwuwo, how would you describe the event?

‎Ekwukwo: (Laughing) Thank you, my brother. Were you at the Summit? Indeed, the Anioma Youth Summit 2025 was an overwhelming success in every sense. We initially planned for 500 youth delegates drawn from the nine Local Government Areas of Delta North Senatorial District, but by the end of accreditation, we had recorded over 600 participants. That alone was a remarkable achievement. ‎The caliber of dignitaries who graced the occasion added immense colour and honour to the event. The guest speakers did justice to the theme of the Summit, “Awakening the Consciousness of Anioma Youth Toward Nation Building." They enlightened our youths on the need to embrace nation building as a responsibility to themselves, their communities, and the nation at large. ‎

Pen Master: ...and the event was colourful, evidently suggesting that you were supported by political bigwigs in your Anioma Region. Are you expressing your gratitude for the support?

Ekwukwo: When we began planning the Summit, we approached it the way we have always executed past projects by looking inward within the Forum for funding. However, given the scale of what we envisioned, we also reached out to well-meaning individuals and public office holders. We consulted Anioma leaders and critical stakeholders, but regrettably, not much support came in financially, with some commitments still in the form of unredeemed promises. ‎Nonetheless, the Summit turned out to be a resounding success, and we remain deeply grateful to everyone who stood by us to make it possible. In particular, we wish to appreciate the Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei, former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly; Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi, member representing Ndokwa/Ukwuani Federal Constituency; Hon. Ngozi Okolie, Member Representing Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency; Rt. Hon. Victor Nwokolo, Member Representing Ika Federal Constituency; Mr. Charles Odii, Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of SMEDAN; Chief Dr. Obi Kelvin Ezenyili, Executive Chairman, Oshimili South Local Government Area; Ide (Dr) Tony Nwaka; Mr. Ofonye Paul, Special Adviser to the Edo State Governor on Electronic Media; Mr. Norbert Sochukwudinma, APC Chairman, Aniocha South; Barr. Okolo Hessington, Executive Assistant to the Governor on Youth Mobilization; Mr. Sani Jaffas Bebeji of the NDLEA, Drug Demand Reduction, Delta State Command; Hon. Jossy Onah, Executive Assistant to the Governor of Delta State; and Hon. (Barr.) Bridget Anyafulu, Member Representing Oshimili South State Constituency, among many others too numerous to mention in this interview with you. ‎To all who contributed in one way or another, we say a heartfelt thank you.

Pen Master:. ..and you also honoured some Anioma figures prominently Major General Raymond Ochei who is known for his community-building and support for Anioma cultural activities....

Ekwukwo: ...the honour of Gen. Raymond Ochei is a testament to his commitment to community development. Anioma youths will continue to seek partnerships with well-meaning sons and daughters of Anioma, and it will be truly gratifying to see them give their full support and help Anioma youths achieve their dreams and build a better Anioma that everyone will be proud of.

Pen Master: ‎ What further steps is your organization looking forward to, as your objectives?

Ekwukwo: As a purpose-driven group, we have remained focused over the years, keeping our eyes on the ultimate goal of providing the voice that Anioma youths once lacked. Going forward, we will continue to be guided by the principles of commitment, diligence, focus, and hard work, while seeking partnerships and fostering synergy with relevant stakeholders and institutions and other groups. Our vision is to ensure that Anioma youths take their rightful place of pride among the community of ethnic nationalities in Delta State and Nigeria at large.

Pen Master: Truly, with this recent success in organizing this event, several other Anioma youth groups will look forward to you. What advice do you have for them?

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Ekwukwo: ‎The success of the just-concluded Summit has renewed our drive for the emancipation, growth, and development of Anioma youths. We are not lowering the bar instead, we are committed to raising it even higher.

Pen Master: Elvis Ekwukwu, as a notable Anioma youth figure, do you believe in Anioma State in the Southeast?

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‎Ekwukwo: There is no Anioma youth who stands against the creation of Anioma State. The agitation for Anioma state creation has been a long-standing aspiration dating back to the days of our forefathers. It is deeply rooted in the collective desire of our people for recognition, development, and a stronger voice in the Nigerian federation.

I must therefore commend the renewed efforts of our distinguished Senator, Ned Nwoko, in resurrecting and sustaining the push for Anioma State. The gains that come with its creation far outweigh the  debates surrounding the snag of geopolitical placement. Anioma youths remain resolute, believing that the realization of Anioma State will usher in greater opportunities, equity, and progress for our people.

Pen Master: Ekwukwo: Away from this particular view, why do you think geopolitical view matters to the people on both sides of this argument?

Ekwukwo:‎ I believe I have clearly expressed my position on this matter, but since you insist, let me state this. From as far back as 1963 up until 1976, the geopolitical area now referred to as Anioma was classified either under the Western Region or the Midwestern Region. This historical context explains why some of our people argue that when Anioma State is eventually created, it should align with the South-South geopolitical zone, thereby maintaining the status quo of belonging to the Western/Midwestern bloc rather than the Eastern Region. ‎That said, geopolitical placement should not overshadow the broader benefits of Anioma State’s creation. 

Pen Master: As a politician that you are, has your Ezionum and other neighbouring communities made any gains from the political representatives in the last two years of this current dispensation?

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Ekwukwo: When it comes to political gains in my community and our neighboring communities, I do not believe that any government sits to do nothing. Yes, there is a government presence here and there, and a number of our people in government as well, but a lot more still requires urgent attention. Critical infrastructural upgrades are needed across sectors to make life easier for our people. ‎For instance, the failed portion of the Ezionum–Abbi Road requires urgent rehabilitation. The people of Ezionum are without a functional market, making it necessary to completely reconstruct the Ezionum Market. It is also high time the Ezionum–Ogume Road was awarded for construction. Beyond infrastructure, there is a pressing need for greater investment in human capital development to empower our people and improve their livelihoods. Furthermore, the rising insecurity in different forms demands renewed vigor from government and security agencies so our people can farm, trade, and move freely between communities without fear of abduction.

Pen Master: Any advice for your fellow Anioma youths?

Ekwukwo: Anioma people are respected across the country and beyond for their doggedness, resilience, hard work, patriotism, and excellence. I urge every Anioma youth to pursue only the values and endeavors that uphold these traits. 

Pen Master: Ekwukwo, I must thank you for speaking with me.

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‎Ekwukwu: It's my pleasure, speaking with you