Soludo Urges Corps Members to Embrace Values of Respect, Tolerance for Nation-building

By Praise Chinecherem

Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has called on corps members to embrace deeper values of mutual respect, tolerance and collaboration as guiding principles for nation-building.

The Governor gave the charge on Saturday during the 2025 Batch B, Stream I Inter-Platoon Cultural Carnival held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe NYSC Unity Permanent Orientation Camp, Umuawulu/Mbaukwu.

Soludo, represented by Permanent Secretary Ministry of Youth Development, Engr. Dr. Martin Agbili said such values would also guide them as future leaders and change-makers.

He urged them not to view Nigeria’s diversity as weakness but strength that would build nation of their dreams.

“While dances, attire and cuisines are beautiful expressions of identity, their real strength lies in the unity they foster.

“Our diversity is not our weakness; it is the strength that will build the Nigeria of our dreams,” he added.

While reiterating his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment and national integration, the governor noted that NYSC has remained vital partner in the vision, describing the carnival as demonstration of positive role youths play in building bridges of understanding.

Earlier, State Coordinator, NYSC, Mrs Pauline Ojisua described corps members as living proof that the Scheme’s mission of fostering unity is alive and thriving.

She said the event was not just an entertainment but reminder that the nation’s differences were not barriers, but bridge as well as strong beautiful connections binding citizens as one people.

She said, “Today is not just another date on our calendar. It is a living celebration of Nigeria’s soul.

“In this arena, our ten platoons come together to tell the story of over 250 ethnic groups through vibrant dances, rich cuisines, age-old marriage rites, colourful attire, and powerful storytelling.

“This is more than entertainment; it is a reminder that our differences are not barriers, but bridges—strong, beautiful connections that bind us as one people.

“Every dance step taken, every traditional garment worn, every flavour shared today is a loud declaration that Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity.

“This carnival is a place where stereotypes dissolve, where unity blooms, and where the dream of One Nigeria stands tall and proud.

“You have embraced this moment with creativity, energy, and an open heart. You are living proof that the NYSC’s mission of fostering unity is alive and thriving.”

The carnival which attracted dignitaries, community leaders, and camp officials, featured colourful cultural performances from all ten platoons, alongside entertaining side attractions such as “Catching the Train,” sack race, and filling-the-can.

Platoon 8 won the most decorated platoon, followed by Platoon 5, awarded the best presentation prize and Platoon 10, given the best King and Queen Award, drawing loud cheers from the crowd.