In this exclusive, no-holds-barred interview with The Concourse Media, the Zonal Leader and Coordinator of the newly launched “Progressive Youths for Tomorrow Is Here Movement,” Hon. Ochendo Chikamso Onyishi, opens up on the philosophy, purpose, and long-term strategy of this bold grassroots initiative reshaping political engagement across Enugu North Senatorial Zone and beyond.
The Concourse Media: Hon. Ochendo, congratulations on the successful launch of the “Progressive Youths for Tomorrow Is Here Movement.” Let’s begin from the very foundation, what inspired the creation of this movement, and why now?
Hon. Ochendo Chikamso Onyishi:
Thank you very much. The inspiration behind this movement is rooted in a deep realization that governance must no longer be an elite conversation but a participatory process owned by the people, especially the youth. We observed a gap, a vacuum between government policy intentions and the understanding of those policies at the grassroots level. Many citizens are unaware of the transformational work happening under Governor Peter Mbah’s administration simply because no deliberate structure existed to interpret, communicate, and translate those policies into relatable grassroots narratives.
We decided it was time to bridge that gap, to awaken civic consciousness, not through political slogans, but through structured, grassroots engagement. The Progressive Youths for Tomorrow Is Here Movement is our answer to that challenge. We are saying: “The future is not in 2027; it is already here, and we, the youth, must drive it.”
The Concourse Media: That’s quite visionary. But critics might argue that this is just another political group aimed at securing electoral advantage for the incumbent administration. How would you respond to such skepticism?
Hon. Ochendo:
That’s a fair question, and I understand where it’s coming from. But let me be clear, we are not just another political group chasing election timelines. We are a movement, not a campaign organization.
Our foundation rests on three pillars: civic enlightenment, grassroots mobilization, and leadership grooming. Yes, we support Governor Peter Mbah’s vision; proudly so, because it aligns with our belief in transformative governance. But beyond that, our goal is to institutionalize civic awareness and youth political education across communities.
We want to raise a generation that doesn’t just vote, but understands why they vote; a generation that sees governance as a shared responsibility. When people are informed and empowered, democracy becomes stronger. So, to answer your question, no, we’re not here for short-term politics. We’re here to build a sustainable, knowledge-driven political culture.
The Concourse Media: The name of the movement — Progressive Youths for Tomorrow Is Here, carries a lot of symbolism. What’s the philosophy behind that choice of words?
Hon. Ochendo:
The philosophy is simple but profound. “Tomorrow Is Here” is not just a slogan; it’s a declaration of responsibility. For too long, the Nigerian youth have been told that the future belongs to them, yet that future never seems to arrive. We are saying: Enough of waiting. The future we talk about is already here; the time to act is now. His Excellency, Gov. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah’s leadership philosophy and governance mantra gave an impetus to this name.
Our movement redefines youth participation, from passive expectation to active contribution. We’re not waiting for space to be created for us; we are creating that space through ideas, integrity, and collective action. And we are glad that Gov. Mbah has set the tone in the State. It’s about transforming youthful energy into developmental energy, about ownership and service.
The Concourse Media: You’ve described the movement as “a new energy for a progressive tomorrow.” Can you break down the specific objectives that define this new energy?
Hon. Ochendo:
Absolutely. Our objectives are both immediate and long-term.
In the immediate term, we are focused on two fronts:
Civic Enlightenment:
We are developing a network of trained Community Ambassadors who will go from ward to ward, sensitizing citizens about government programs, policies, and opportunities. For instance, people must understand what Governor Peter Mbah’s administration is doing in infrastructure renewal, education, healthcare, and digital innovation. Civic ignorance breeds apathy; and we’re confronting that head-on.
Voter Mobilization and Data-Driven Participation:
We are embarking on an extensive voter registration and revalidation drive. Democracy thrives when citizens have a voice. So, we’re ensuring that no eligible youth or woman is left behind.
Then, in the long term, our goal is leadership grooming. We are building an ecosystem that mentors young people for leadership, not just in politics, but in civic service, entrepreneurship, and community development.
This is the “new energy” I spoke about, an informed, active, and value-driven youth base that sustains good governance.
The Concourse Media: There’s growing concern about the disconnect between political leadership and the grassroots. How does your movement intend to bridge that gap in real terms?
Hon. Ochendo:
That concern is valid, and it’s one of the major reasons we came together. Governance becomes abstract when people don’t see how policies affect their daily lives. Our movement serves as the bridge.
We’re creating a two-way communication channel, from government to the people, and from the people back to government. Through town hall meetings, digital platforms, and community outreach programs, we’ll amplify the government’s achievements while relaying citizens’ feedback and expectations.
We call it “participatory governance through civic literacy.” When citizens understand the “why and how” of governance, their participation becomes meaningful. This feedback loop will redefine how policy is felt and sustained at the grassroots.
The Concourse Media: Let’s talk about structure. How exactly is this movement organized, and what makes it different from other youth groups that fade away after elections?
Hon. Ochendo:
The difference is in our structure and sustainability model. The Progressive Youths for Tomorrow Is Here Movement operates on a zonal, local government, and ward-level structure; with clearly defined roles, accountability systems, and performance indicators.
Each level has coordinators responsible for civic programs, mobilization, and communication. We’re establishing a data hub to track engagement, attendance, and participation. Moreover, our funding is community-driven, we’re encouraging ownership rather than dependency.
Unlike typical political groups that dissolve after elections, we are institutionalizing our processes. The movement will outlive any election cycle because it’s built on education, empowerment, and continuous engagement.
The Concourse Media: What is your personal motivation in leading this initiative, and what legacy do you hope it leaves behind?
Hon. Ochendo:
My motivation is simple: service. I grew up in a community where many brilliant young people felt disconnected from governance; not because they didn’t care, but because they didn’t understand how to engage. I made up my mind that if I ever had the opportunity, I would help build a structure that connects the dots. The unprecedented transformative government of Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, is also a great motivation to me.
If this movement can awaken political consciousness in our youth, make them informed participants rather than passive observers, then we would have succeeded. The legacy I envision is a self-sustaining youth platform that nurtures civic responsibility, promotes excellence, and keeps the torch of progress burning beyond any political era.
The Concourse Media: Finally, what message do you have for the youth of Enugu State and Nigerians at large who are watching this movement with interest?
Hon. Ochendo:
My message is straightforward: Wake up, get involved, and take responsibility. The story of progress is not written by those who complain, but by those who act.
Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah has provided the vision — a roadmap for a prosperous, innovative, and globally competitive Enugu State. It is now our duty as youths to amplify, sustain, and build upon that vision.
The Progressive Youths for Tomorrow Is Here Movement is not about “them”; it’s about us. Let’s stop waiting for tomorrow, because truly, Tomorrow Is Here.
Comr. Chikamso Onyishi during the inauguration
The Concourse Media: Thank you very much for granting us this interview session.
Hon. Ochendo: You’re always welcome. The pleasure is mine.
