By Praise Chinecherem

Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra state on Tuesday commissioned an ultramodern 200-seater pavilion for corps members in the Nnamdi Azikiwe Unity National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Orientation Camp in the state.

The facility named after Governor Soludo was built by Managing Director, Martson De-Rock limited, Mr Ezeorji Chinedu.

Commissioning the pavilion on Tuesday, Soludo said the gesture was a demonstration of the benefactor’s commitment to youth development.

He called on other well-meaning citizens to borrow a leaf from the benefactor, just as he challenged the corps members who are the direct beneficiaries to take full ownership of the facility by ensuring its regular maintenance.

“We commend the Markson De-Rock for the donation. You’ve written your name on gold. The edifice stands for socio-cultural engagement. We’re confident it will serve this generation and the generation to come,” he added

Director-General, NYSC, Brigadier General O.O. Nafiu described the facility as shining example of impactful public-private partnership and corporate social responsibility.

He expressed confidence that the facility would enhance quality of orientation programmes, provide befitting venue for ceremonial activities, drills, social engagements and other critical components of camp life.

He said, “This landmark project reflects a shared commitment to youth development, nation-building, and the continuous improvement of facilities that support the objectives of the National Youth Service Corps.

“The naming of this magnificent pavilion after Your Excellency is both fitting and symbolic. It is a recognition of your visionary leadership, unwavering support for youth empowerment, and your administration’s dedication to infrastructural development in Anambra State.

“Your strides in governance continue to inspire confidence and foster progress, particularly among the young people who remain the backbone of our nation.

“This pavilion will undoubtedly enhance the quality of orientation programmes by providing a befitting venue for ceremonial activities, drills, social engagements, and other critical components of camp life.

“It will also serve as a lasting legacy that future generations of Corps Members will benefit from and appreciate.”

Appreciating the benefactor for the noble gesture, DG boss encouraged other corporate bodies and well-meaning individuals to emulate the laudable example in supporting national development initiatives.

“Your contribution goes beyond bricks and mortar; it is an investment in the future of Nigeria. I urge our corps members to see this facility as a symbol of the confidence reposed in you by the nation.

Earlier, NYSC State Coordinator, Pauline Ojisua thanked the donor, describing the project as significant milestone in the history of the NYSC in the state.

‎”We are deeply grateful to Mr Martin Ezeorji of Markson De-Rock Ltd for this generous intervention. Your contribution has not only added value to our camp infrastructure but has also strengthened the bond between NYSC and the private sector.

“It is indeed a welcome development that aligns with our commitment to providing a conducive environment for corps members.

“I sincerely appreciate the Governor of Anambra state under the leadership of Prof Charles Soludo for its continuous support to the Scheme”.

The benefactor, Mr. Martins Ezeorji, said pavilion was his own way of giving back to the society, praying the facility would not just serve as shelter to the corps members, but be a constant reminder that Nigeria believes in them.

“The pavilion is, for us at Markson De-Rock, a declaration of faith: faith in Nigeria’s youth in the vision of the National Youth Service Corps, grounded in national integration and unity.

“If I have the opportunity, I’ll replicate this project in all NYSC orientation camps across the country,” he added.

Ezeorji justified the naming of the project after the Governor, describing him “as a symbol of excellence, vision and service having distinguished himself through transformative leadership.”