“We are succeeding as individuals, but there is a collective vacuum. Our individual success does not lead to much until we unite collectively.” — Gov. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR.
Delivering a fiery, thought-provoking address as the Special Guest at the TEDxEnugu: Transcend Beyond Borders conference, Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, called for a fundamental mindset shift and self-review among Ndi Igbo, urging a transition from fragmented individual hustle to structured collective institutions.
Speaking before a packed audience at the International Conference Centre (ICC) in Enugu, Soludo tackled the core theme—Transcend Beyond Borders: The Next Chapter in the Igbo Story—by challenging young Ndi Igbo to rethink their approach to economic development and enterprise.
“When are we going to go beyond ‘Okonkwo and Sons’ to ‘Enugu PLC’?”
Governor Soludo noted that while Ndi Igbo excel as an itinerant tribe across every corner of the world, individual brilliance has created disparity rather than lasting regional clout. He insisted that true power lies in organizing talent into sustainable, institutional structures.
Acknowledging that over 50% of the Igbo population lives outside the South-East, Governor Soludo stressed the urgent need to connect back to the homeland. He urged the region to clean up its backyard and focus on creating economic powerhouses, remarking, “We should be busy creating millions of Elon Musks.”
Advocating for a pragmatic approach to engaging Nigeria and the global economy, the Governor urged the younger generation to “tone down the noise” and focus heavily on acquiring high-value knowledge, skills, and strategic alliances.
Reflecting on his personal journey from private success to public service, the Governor encouraged youth involvement in public affairs. “Public service is the greatest form of philanthropy,” he stated, urging youth to build a new Ndi Igbo capable of adapting to an increasingly borderless world.
The Governor concluded with an inspiring message to young innovators and entrepreneurs, reassuring them that “It is possible” to redefine the South-East’s trajectory. By shifting focus toward collective enterprise, talent development, and homeland investment, he expressed confidence that the Igbo story will transcend beyond physical and economic borders.
