Omenugha Bags NUJ Youth Mentorship Award, Pledges Continued Advocacy and Empowerment*

The Special Adviser to Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, Dr. Nelson Omenugha, has reaffirmed his commitment to youth advocacy and empowerment. He made this statement while addressing members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Anambra State Council, during the official presentation of his nomination letter for the Outstanding Youth Mentor Award.

A delegation from the NUJ, led by its Chairman, Dr. Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, paid a courtesy visit to Dr. Omenugha at his residence in Awka on June 12, 2025.

The highlight of the visit was the formal delivery of his nomination letter by the NUJ, accompanied by the presentation of a
high-quality sound system, a gift from Dr. Omenugha himself.

In a warm discussion that followed, Dr. Omenugha shared his journey in youth leadership and mentorship:
“All through my life, I’ve been into youth apostolate. Before gaining admission into UNIZIK, I was the leader of the Catholic Boys Association in my parish. At the university, I served as Course Representative and eventually Student Union President. From there, I joined the Transform Nigeria Movement Youth and later built a support group for my principal and governor, Mr. Charles Chukwuma Soludo. So, a very good part of my life has been spent with young people,” he recounted.

He emphasized that his motivation has never been material gain:
“Materially, I didn’t gain anything from all these efforts. But it gives me a deep sense of fulfillment—being able to interact with young people, understand their challenges, and help solve those I can. I also find joy in appreciating their hard work.”

On his nomination, Dr. Omenugha described the award as a strong encouragement:
“This award encourages me to continue with youth advocacy andempowermentp, which are the missing links in the chain of youth empowerment. Without mentors to guide and inspire, and to serve as confidants to the aspiring, little progress can be made.”

In his remarks, Dr. Odogwu, NUJ State Chairman, said the union was proud to honor one of its own:
“We’re delighted to recognize Dr. Omenugha as an outstanding youth mentor—and even more pleased that he accepted the honor.”

He added:
“We’re not giving you this award simply because we can. We want it to be memorable and exceptional—an award that shines throughout your life and reminds you that you belong to the NUJ family.”

Dr. Omenugha, in response, said the words of the chairman gave him a deep sense of pride, and that he would forever cherish the award, especially since it came from a body he is part of.

The NUJ Award Ceremony, alongside the Man of the Year Celebration, will be the major highlight of the Union’s upcoming Annual Press Week, scheduled for August 28, 2025.