High Chief Ambassador-Mayor Chinedu Enujeko, the Odogwu of the Ubulu Unor Kingdom and Senior Special Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Youth Mobilisation, has said that traditional leadership and modern governance share common foundations, describing tradition as “a government on its own” that strengthens effective administration and youth engagement.
Speaking during an interactive session, Enujeko explained that his dual role as a traditional leader and government appointee has enhanced his capacity to mobilise and guide young people across communities.
“Being the Odogwu is about administration and the defence of my community. Modern governance is structured in a similar way; in fact, it borrows a lot from traditional government,” he said.
According to him, traditional institutions place premium value on truth and sincerity, which he noted has shaped his approach to leadership and public service. “Tradition does not accept lying. That value has brought sincerity of purpose into everything we do,” he added.
Enujeko, a former President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), said his long-standing engagement with youth constituencies has helped him build trust and maintain peaceful relationships, making conflict resolution among youths “seamless.”
On youth participation in governance, the Odogwu disclosed that he recently mobilised young people from his community by providing transportation to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) offices to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards, while also assisting them to secure their National Identification Numbers (NIN).
“Without your NIN and voter’s card, you may not be able to be engaged by government. I am doing everything humanly possible within my space to ensure our people are prepared and properly documented,” he said.
He noted that his office consistently engages youths through advocacy, capacity-building sessions and mentorship, helping them identify their strengths and potential. He also revealed ongoing collaboration with the Delta State Office of Job Creation to ensure that information about skills acquisition, digital innovation and entrepreneurship opportunities reaches grassroots communities.
“We synergise with relevant government offices and ensure that whenever opportunities arise, our people are informed and encouraged to participate,” Enujeko stated.
As political activities ahead of 2027 begin to generate conversations among youths, particularly in Ubulu Unor, the youth mobiliser emphasised sustained engagement and orientation as key to preventing unrest. “When youths are engaged and empowered, there is less room for talk, fighting or manipulation,” he said.
Reflecting on his legacy, Enujeko said his ultimate goal is to leave behind a peaceful and organised community. “I hope my era will be remembered as one of peace. That is the legacy I intend to leave — a legacy of peace,” he said.
He urged young people who feel disconnected from leadership to take proactive steps. “Do not feel left behind. If you are not called, call yourself. Join groups, get involved. Sitting in one place and complaining makes no change,” he advised.
Enujeko also Enujeko also commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration, describing it as youth-friendly and enabling. “Governor Oborevwori has brought light to Delta State by creating an environment that allows people, especially young people, to succeed. His administration is deliberately inclusive,” he said.
