Soludo Urges New Corps Members to Uphold Patriotism, Responsibility in Anambra

By Mary Obi

Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has urged NYSC members to uphold patriotism and responsibility. This charge was delivered during the swearing-in ceremony of Batch A Stream 1 Corps members at the Nnamdi Azikiwe NYSC Unity Camp in Umuawulu/Mbaukwu, Awka South Local Government Area of the state. The oath of allegiance was administered by Justice C.G. Nwankwor, representing Anambra’s Chief Judge.

In his opening remarks, Governor Soludo urged the corps members to align with his vision of transforming Anambra into a livable, prosperous, and sustainable smart city. He encouraged their involvement in the state’s ongoing “One Youth Two Skills” empowerment program.

Speaking on behalf of the Governor, Mr. Patrick Aghamba, Commissioner for Youth Development, emphasized the importance of harnessing Anambra’s vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. He highlighted opportunities for corps members to turn their ideas into viable enterprises, collaborate with local innovators, and promote national unity by respecting the region’s cultural diversity. He further advocated for supporting local products, such as Akwaete textiles and Nnewi automobiles, to propel economic growth.

Mr. Aghamba reassured the corps members of the state’s commitment to investment in youth empowerment and security, emphasizing the safe and conducive environment for their service. He urged them to let integrity, diligence, and compassion guide their actions in Anambra.

Appreciating the dedication of the NYSC staff, particularly the new state coordinator, Mrs. Pauline Ojisua, Mr. Aghamba emphasized the importance of teamwork in delivering on their mandate.

Mrs. Ojisua shared that out of the 1,600 corps members sworn in, 949 were female while 651 were male. She articulated that the orientation course was designed to equip them with the necessary skills, values, and adaptability to excel during their service year.

Reiterating the importance of the orientation camp, Mrs. Ojisua thanked Governor Soludo for his unwavering support for youth development and urged the corps members to uphold the ideals of the NYSC—excellence, collaboration, and integrity.

Additionally, she encouraged them to embrace their roles as agents of unity and development, emphasizing the importance of taking the orientation seriously as it forms the foundation for their service year.

“The course is designed to equip you with the skills, values, and adaptability needed to succeed,” she stated.

Mrs. Ojisua commended Governor Soludo for championing youth empowerment and supporting the NYSC’s mission in Anambra State. She urged the corps members to foster bonds of brotherhood and allow their orientation experience to shape their character and future.

In echoing these sentiments, Engr. Martin Agbili, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth Development, emphasized the ethical responsibility of corps members to prioritize integrity and selflessness. He urged them to serve diligently while embracing the rich culture of Anambra State.