Awka, Anambra State: Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra has praised the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) for fostering national unity and youth understanding through its cultural festival at the orientation programme.
Soludo made the commendation during the 2025 Batch ‘C’ Stream I Inter-platoon Cultural Carnival, held on Saturday at the NYSC Orientation Camp at Mbaukwu-Umuawulu.
He said that NYSC had continued to contribute to national unity, and exposing corps members to the diverse cultural identities of various nationalities was a source of hope for the preservation of Nigeria’s values.
He said: “The rich display of the diverse cultural heritage in Nigeria by our corps members is an assurance of sustenance of our values and future.
“Beyond the drums and dances, I recommend that we begin to tell the stories behind these cultural practices and teach the youths the core values of our country,” he said.
In an address of welcome, the state NYSC Coordinator, Mrs Pauline Ojisua, said that the cultural carnival “is a celebration of colour, identity, and shared nationhood”.
Ojisua said it was not just for entertainment but a symbolic reflection of our nation’s rich cultural diversity, with over 250 ethnic groups woven together by history, resilience, and hope.
“Through the creativity on display today, we affirm that our differences are not walls but bridges; not sources of conflict, but foundations for unity, peace, and sustainable development.
“This carnival teaches us that Nigeria is strongest when every culture is respected, celebrated, and understood.
“I commend our 10 platoons for the energy, innovation, teamwork, and discipline they have invested in preparing for this event.
“Your performances embody the NYSC spirit of unity in diversity, service to the nation, and unwavering patriotism,” she said.
She appreciated Soludo for his continued support of the scheme, and the traditional rulers of the host communities and the scheme’s partners for their contributions to the event’s success.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr Patrick Aghamba, said that each tribe, language, and tradition represented a unique thread in the nation’s fabric.
Aghamba, represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Martin Agbili, said it has long been a symbol of cultural pride, innovation, and progress.
Agbili said that Soludo’s administration was committed to empowering young people, fostering national unity, and driving integration.
“We are honoured to welcome you as you experience the beauty and warmth of Anambra.
“This carnival is proof that, despite our different backgrounds, we can come together in mutual respect and appreciation, celebrating what makes each of us unique,” he said.
The event featured presentations of playlets by the 10 platoons, a cultural parade by the NYSC management and corps members, a train-catching event, and other activities.
At the end, Platoon-4 emerged as the overall winners of the competition.
