By Ovat Abeng
The traditional ruler of Umueri community in Anambra east local government area of Anambra state, HRH Igwe Ben Emeka (Okebo 11), has described the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), as one of the major tools that has sustained Nigeria unity and co-existence.
The Monarch stated this while speaking to Journalists at the 2026 Batch ‘A’ Stream II Inter-Platoon Cultural Carnival, held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe NYSC Unity Permanent Orientation Camp, Umuawulu/Mbaukwu in Awka South Local Government Area of the State, on Saturday.
According to him, the Scheme through it orientation programmes, particularly, the cultural carnival, has made Nigerians to understand each other culture and traditions.
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“It’s a welcome development. I am highly impressed. It’s very significant to Nigeria unity. It promote unity among Nigeria youths. What I witnessed today in this orientation camp, shows that the Nigeria National Symbol of “Peace, Unity and Progress is still intact.
“We the traditional rulers in Anambra State and the entire South East region will continue to support NYSC in all the do whenever we are needed.
He charged the corps members to maintain the inter-relationship they have established in Anambra State for the future sake.
In her welcome address, the state NYSC coordinator, Mrs Pauline Ojisua, urged youths to continue to recognise the benefits of Nigeria’s cultural diversity, harness them and explore them as a strong bridge to unity, peace and sustainable development.
According to her, Nigeria is blessed with over 250 ethnic groups, each uniquely endowed with languages, traditions, music, cuisines, fashion, and values.
“Our diversity is not a barrier; rather, it is a bridge that binds us together in unity, peace, and national development.
“The Cultural Carnival reminds us that despite our differences, we remain one people with one destiny under one nation.
“I sincerely commend the Corps Members across the ten 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.
“On behalf of the NYSC Management, I express profound gratitude to the Executive Governor of Anambra State, His Excellency, Prof Charles Chukwuma Soludo, for his unwavering support towards the Scheme in the State.
“I also deeply appreciate the presence and fatherly support of our revered traditional rulers, HRM Igwe Joel Maduadichie Egwuonwu, Ezeudo II of Umuawulu, and HRM Igwe Dr Peter Nwokike Anugwu, Ezeukwu of Mbaukwu, alongside all distinguished guests present here at this great event.
“As we enjoy every dance, song, cuisine, fashion display, and cultural performance presented by the platoons representing ten diverse cultures, let us remember that Nigeria’s diversity remains her greatest strength and her greatest hope for a united future.
“In the words of the great Jamaican Political leader and Pan-Africanist, Marcus Garvey, “A people without the knowledge of their history, culture, and values are like a tree without roots.” May we continue to build a nation where every culture is respected, every voice is valued, and every citizen truly belongs, Mrs Ojisua advocated.
