By Ovat Abeng
Anambra state governor, Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has urged the 2026 “Batch A’ stream 1 corps members newly deployed to the State to allowed the State shaped their future endeavors.
The governor charges was contained in his welcome address presented during the swearing in ceremony of 1,500 corps members, held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe NYSC Unity Permanent Orientation Camp, Umuawulu/Mbaukwu, Awka South local government area of the State, on Friday, January 23rd, 2026.
The governor address read in part’, “I am delighted to share this historic moment with you as we formally receive the 2026 Batch ‘A’ Stream 1 Corps Members into Anambra State.
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“Today marks not only the beginning of your national service but also the start of a defining chapter in your personal journey as young Nigerians entrusted with the future of our nation.
“On behalf of the government and people of Anambra State, I warmly congratulate you on the successful completion of your academic pursuits and your admission into the National Youth Service Corps.
“Your presence here reflects the resilience, discipline, and promise of Nigeria’s youth, and we celebrate you for answering the call to serve.Moments ago, you swore an Oath of Allegiance-an oath that is far more than a ceremonial ritual.
It is a solemn pledge to Nigeria and humanity. It is a call to uphold unity, honesty, respect for diversity, and selfless service. These ideals should not end at the camp gate; they must define your conduct throughout your service year and beyond.For over five decades, the NYSC has remained a cornerstone of Nigeria’s nation-building efforts, fostering unity, mutual understanding, and shared purpose. In Anambra State, corps members have consistently contributed meaningfully to development across education, healthcare, agriculture, technology, social services, and community mobilization.
“Many of the strides recorded in our rural and urban communities bear the imprint of corps members who served with passion and dedication.You are standing on the shoulders of those who came before you. I challenge you to exceed their achievements by leaving behind legacies of innovation, compassion, and measurable impact.Our administration recognizes that the greatest asset of any society is its people, particularly the youths. Guided by Anambra Vision 2070, we are deliberately building a prosperous, inclusive, and smart society where young people are empowered to thrive.Through initiatives such as the Solution Innovation District (SID), Code Anambra, One Youth Two Skills Plus, and targeted agribusiness and entrepreneurship schemes, we continue to open doors for skills acquisition, innovation, and wealth creation. 23,000 youths have been empowered with digital skills while the ongoing “One Million Anambra Digital Tribe” is targeted at empowering 1 million Anambra Youths with digital skills.
” My administration has also empowered 13,300 youths with skills and grants to the tune of N5.5 Billion Naira for business start up and expansion in the first and second phase of 1youth2skills Plus. Many before you have acquired digital skills, accessed grants, started businesses through these youth empowerment programmes and even chosen Anambra as their long-term home. You are as well encouraged to fully participate in these programmes.
Therefore, I urge you not to be passive observers. Immerse yourselves in the Anambra experience, learn, create, collaborate, and allow this State to shape you just as you contribute to its growth.As you undergo orientation, discipline must remain your watchword. Obey camp rules, respect constituted authority, and participate actively in all programmes.
The values you internalize here will determine your effectiveness during the service year and beyond.Be solution-driven, identify challenges within your host communities and apply your knowledge creatively. True service is measured not by attendance but by impactWe deeply value the partnership between the Anambra State Government and the NYSC, particularly in areas of grassroots development, public enlightenment, electoral support, health interventions, and youth mentoring.
“I commend the NYSC leadership at both national and state levels, especially the State Coordinator, Mrs. Pauline Ojisua, and her team, for their dedication and professionalism.We are proud of the progress recorded at this Orientation Camp and remain committed to continuous improvement of its facilities to ensure a safe, serene, and enabling environment for corps members.Dear corps members, remember always that you are ambassadors of your families, institutions, and the Nigerian nation.
‘Respect local cultures, promote peace, avoid harmful behaviours, and conduct yourselves with dignity and responsibility.Use this period to build friendships, strengthen networks, and broaden your perspectives. Let your service year be remembered for character, empathy, and excellence.As the great African statesman, Nelson Mandela, once said. “A good head and a good heart are always a formidable combination.” Let wisdom guide your decisions, and let integrity anchor your actionsDistinguished ladies and gentlemen, by the authority vested in me as the Executive Governor of Anambra State, I hereby declare the 2026 Batch ‘A’ Stream 1 Orientation Course of the National Youth Service Corps officially open, Once again, congratulations, and welcome to Anambra State, Soludo concluded.
The governor was represented by the State Commissioner for Youth Development, Hon Patrick Aghamba.
