NYSC Coordinator Urges Corps Members to Turn Nigeria’s Cultural Diversity into Strength for National Development

By Our Reporter

The Anambra State Coordinator of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Mrs Pauline Ojisua, has urged corps members to harness Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity to promote national unity, peaceful coexistence and sustainable development.

Ojisua made the call during the 2026 Batch ‘C’ Stream I Inter-Platoon Cultural Carnival held at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Mbaukwu/Umuawulu, Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State.

The event featured colourful cultural displays, traditional attire and other activities showcasing Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage.

Addressing the corps members, Ojisua said Nigeria’s cultural diversity, reflected in the languages, traditions, music, cuisine, fashion and values of its more than 250 ethnic groups, should serve as a unifying force rather than a source of division.

“This carnival should strengthen the spirit of unity and friendship among corps members and inspire you to contribute to a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.

“Respect, understanding and acceptance are values we must learn and practise to build a united society. I therefore encourage all of you to celebrate your heritage with pride while embracing the cultures of others,” she said.

The state coordinator commended members of the 10 platoons and their respective coordinators for their quick adaptation and impressive presentation of the cultural traditions assigned to them.

She noted that the performances demonstrated the importance of appreciating Nigeria’s diverse cultural identities while promoting the core values of the NYSC scheme.

“Our diversity is not a weakness but a source of strength. It offers us an opportunity to promote mutual understanding, peaceful coexistence and national unity.

“Your performances reflect the core values of the NYSC Scheme, particularly national unity, patriotism, selfless service and respect for our differences,” Ojisua said.

She also expressed appreciation to Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, and the traditional rulers of the host communities, Mbaukwu and Umuawulu, for their continued support for the scheme and corps members.

Anambra Government Tasks Corps Members on Cultural Preservation

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, Mr Patrick-Agha Mba, described Anambra as a state blessed with a rich cultural heritage, deeply rooted traditions, entrepreneurial excellence, hospitality and strong community values.

Mba, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mr Ifeatu Emordi, said culture remained an important expression of a people’s identity, history and values.

He identified traditional dances, masquerades, indigenous music, traditional attire, festivals, local delicacies and respect for elders and traditional institutions as essential elements of cultural identity.

According to him, Anambra’s cultural heritage is reflected in traditions such as the Ofala Festival and New Yam Festival, as well as indigenous crafts and the Igbo language.

He explained that these cultural expressions tell stories of history, resilience, thanksgiving and communal unity, adding that they have contributed significantly to the social and economic development of Anambra State and Nigeria at large.

“As we celebrate our different cultures, let us remember that our cultural diversity should unite us, not divide us,” he said.

The commissioner charged the corps members to take responsibility for preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage while promoting integrity, hard work, tolerance, peaceful coexistence and national unity.

“As young Nigerians, you have a responsibility not only to preserve our cultural heritage but also to promote the values of integrity, hard work, tolerance, peaceful coexistence and national unity.

“Let us continue to celebrate our differences while working together towards a common future of peace, progress and prosperity,” Mba said.

He further urged the corps members to embrace the cultures of their host communities, learn from local traditions, respect community values and contribute positively to grassroots development.

“Embrace the culture of your host communities, learn from their traditions, respect their values and contribute positively to their development,” he added.

The cultural carnival provided an opportunity for corps members from different parts of Nigeria to showcase their cultural identities, appreciate the traditions of other ethnic groups and strengthen the bonds of friendship and national integration.

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