Education
THE Abia Coordinator of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Alhaji Yunusa Tanimu, says the scheme remains one of Nigeria’s most enduring nation-building institutions as it marked its 53rd anniversary.
Tanimu said this on Friday at the anniversary celebration, held at the NYSC Secretariat in Umuahia.
He said the scheme, established in the aftermath of the civil war in 1973, was designed to foster unity, promote mutual understanding, and encourage national integration among the Nigerian youths.
He said, “53 years later, it is gratifying to note that the NYSC has continued to play this vital role with remarkable impact.”
According to him, millions of corps members have contributed immensely to community development across the country in education, healthcare, agriculture, rural infrastructure, voter education, environmental sanitation, entrepreneurship, and other sectors.
“Through the scheme, young graduates have not only served the nation but also acquired valuable experiences, built lifelong relationships across ethnic and religious lines, and contributed meaningfully to national progress,” he said.
Tanimu also said that Abia remained proud of the positive contributions of corps members to its socio-economic development, describing their dedication, creativity, and resilience as sources of hope for a greater Nigeria.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Abia NYSC to the ideals of the scheme’s founding fathers, pledging to uphold the core values of discipline, patriotism, integrity, selfless service, and national unity.
“We shall continue to guide, mentor, and support corps members towards the successful achievement of the NYSC mandate.
“We are also resolved to ensure that the scheme remains relevant and responsive to the changing needs of our nation,” Tanimu said.
He commended stakeholders in Abia, including the State Government, security agencies, employers, traditional rulers, community leaders, and collaborating agencies, for their support over the years.
To the corps members, he said: “I urge you to remain committed to the service of our fatherland.
“Continue to conduct yourselves responsibly and contribute positively wherever you are posted.
“Your service to the nation today is an investment in the Nigeria of tomorrow.”
The Abia NYSC boss implored Nigerians to renew their commitment to national unity, peaceful coexistence, and selfless service as the scheme marked the milestone.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event featured the cutting of the anniversary cake, a rally within the secretariat complex and cultural dance by the Abia dance troupe.
The colourful event also featured different presentations on the impressive history of the scheme by corps members in different Nigerian Languages. (NAN)
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Tags: Anniversary NYSC