The National Youth Service Corps has encouraged young Nigerians to see the country’s cultural diversity as a strength that can foster peace, unity and national development.
The call was made by the Anambra State Coordinator of the NYSC, Pauline Ojisua, during the 2026 Batch ‘A’ Stream II Inter-Platoon Cultural Carnival held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe NYSC Unity Permanent Orientation Camp in Umuawulu/Mbaukwu, Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State.
Speaking at the event, Ojisua said the cultural carnival was designed to showcase Nigeria’s rich heritage and expose corps members to cultural opportunities that could be transformed into economic ventures through enterprise and export.
She noted that Nigeria’s ethnic diversity should be embraced as a unifying factor rather than a source of division.
“Our diversity is not a barrier; rather, it is a bridge that binds us together in unity, peace and national development,” she said.
According to her, the carnival serves as a reminder that despite ethnic and cultural differences, Nigerians share a common destiny.
“This cultural carnival reminds us that despite our differences, we remain one people with one destiny under one nation,” Ojisua stated.
She also commended corps members from the 10 platoons for their commitment and teamwork in preparing for the event.
“I sincerely commend the corps members across the 10 platoons for the enthusiasm, creativity, discipline and teamwork they have demonstrated in preparation for this event. Your colourful displays reflect the true spirit of the National Youth Service Corps — promoting unity, selfless service, patriotism and mutual respect among Nigerians,” she added.
The NYSC coordinator further expressed appreciation to the Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, for supporting the scheme in the state, while also acknowledging traditional rulers and guests who attended the event.
“As we enjoy every dance, song, cuisine, fashion display and cultural performance presented by the platoons representing diverse cultures, let us remember that Nigeria’s diversity remains her greatest strength and her greatest hope for a united future,” she said.
Chairman of the Carnival Committee, Ben Obi, described the event as evidence that national integration remains possible through the NYSC scheme.
“We celebrate unity in diversity with over 2,000 corps members from different states, tribes, languages and backgrounds under one flag, one anthem and one purpose, which is service to our fatherland,” Obi said.
He added, “On this day, we set aside the routine of camp life to celebrate the diversity and vibrant cultural heritage that define our great nation, Nigeria.”
Obi said the event reflected the unity Nigeria can achieve, noting that corps members from different ethnic groups participated together in cultural performances.
“Look around you, you will see Yoruba dancing with Igbo and Efik, Hausa vibing with Tiv, Benin and Urhobo, all on one parade ground as one family. This is Nigeria at its best,” he added.
Also speaking, the traditional ruler of Umueri community in Anambra East Local Government Area, Ben Emeka, praised the NYSC for promoting national cohesion.
“It’s a welcome development. I am highly impressed. It is very significant to Nigeria’s unity. It promotes unity among Nigerian youths,” the monarch said.
He maintained that the orientation camp activities, particularly the cultural carnival, had helped young Nigerians understand one another’s traditions and values.
“What I witnessed today in this orientation camp shows that the Nigerian national symbol of ‘Peace, Unity and Progress’ is still intact,” he added.
