GOV ENO CHARGES 2026 BATCH ‘C’ CORPS MEMBERS TO PROMOTE NATIONAL UNITY

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, has charged the 2026 Batch ‘C’ Stream I Corps Members deployed to the State to transcend ethnic, religious, linguistic and socio-cultural boundaries in promoting national unity, peaceful coexistence and integration.

Governor Eno gave the charge at the swearing-in ceremony of the Corps Members at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Ikot Itie Udung, Nsit Atai Local Government Area.

Represented by the Director, Ministry of Youth Development, Mr Emmanuel Akabio, the Governor described the National Youth Service Corps Scheme as an enduring platform for fostering national unity, integration and development.

He urged the Corps Members to deploy their intellect, energy and creativity towards building a stronger, united and prosperous Nigeria, emphasizing that their call to national service and the Oath of Allegiance signify their readiness to embrace the responsibilities of nation-building.

Governor Eno said the Orientation Camp represents a miniature Nigeria, bringing together young Nigerians from different parts of the country, and urged the Corps Members to embrace the diversity as a source of strength by building friendships across ethnic and regional lines.

He said the State Government remained committed to their welfare and safety throughout their service year, assuring them that deliberate measures were being taken to protect their lives and property.

The Governor, who acknowledged concerns over the condition of the orientation camp, assured that work would commence shortly to improve its facilities and provide a more conducive environment for training, accommodation and the general wellbeing of Corps Members.

He urged them to remain disciplined, obey camp officials and adhere strictly to camp rules and regulations, stressing that their conduct should reflect integrity, diligence and mutual respect.

Declaring the orientation course formally open, Governor Eno commended camp officials and collaborating agencies for their dedication towards moulding the nation’s future leaders.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Youth Development Dr Ekerette Ekanem said the Corps Members, drawn from diverse cultural, social, religious and academic backgrounds, had converged under the NYSC platform to contribute to the growth, development and unity of Nigeria.

Represented by Head, Enterprise Development, Mr Essien Essien, the Commissioner urged them to respect the values, cultures, traditions and laws of their host communities, stressing that integration with the people would foster mutual acceptance and peaceful coexistence.

He challenged the Corps Members to approach the three-week orientation with commitment, discipline and dedication, noting that the programme was designed to develop leadership capacity, resilience, teamwork and the spirit of selfless service.

Dr Ekanem particularly encouraged them to embrace Community Development Service and deploy their skills, talents and energy towards creating lasting impact, especially in rural communities.

The Commissioner expressed the State Government’s appreciation to Governor Eno for his support to the NYSC Scheme, including the approval for the comprehensive rebuilding of the Permanent Orientation Camp and the provision of 20-thousand naira to each Corps Member and five million naira to Camp Officials during the 2026 Batch ‘B’ Stream II closing ceremony.

Meanwhile, the NYSC State Coordinator, Mrs Rosemary Akuagbaogu, disclosed that 1,978 prospective Corps Members—910 males and 1,068 females—had so far been registered for the 2026 Batch ‘C’ Stream I Orientation Course in Akwa Ibom State.

Mrs Akuagbaogu said the Corps Members had demonstrated commendable discipline since their arrival in camp, quickly adapting to the regimented nature of the orientation programme and complying with camp rules and regulations.

She appealed for urgent intervention to improve accommodation and other facilities at the camp, particularly in view of the rainy season and the large number of Corps Members being accommodated.

The State Coordinator also appreciated the Akwa Ibom State Government, the people of Nsit Atai and the entire State for their continued support, hospitality and commitment to the success of the NYSC Scheme.

The oath of allegiance was administered by the State Chief Judge Justice Ekaette Obot represented by Justice Winfred Umohandi.