Governor Eno Urges NYSC Members to Build Bonds That Could Unite Nigeria

(Governor Umo Eno. Photo Credit; Punch News)

Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has urged National Youth Service Corps members deployed to the state to use their orientation camp experience as an opportunity for building lasting friendships across ethnic and regional boundaries.

He suggested that bonds formed during camp might eventually help shape Nigeria's future, adding that the nation's unity, peace, and progress depend partly on how effectively corps members maximise their camp experience.

The governor made these remarks during the swearing-in ceremony for the 2026 Batch 'B' Stream II corps members, represented by the Director of Youth Development who currently oversees Permanent Secretary duties within the Ministry of Youth Development.

He urged corps members to ensure their contributions transcend ethnic, religious, and linguistic boundaries, encouraging them to embrace diversity as a source of strength while working together harmoniously and respectfully toward achieving an egalitarian society.

He emphasised that as strategic stakeholders within the Nigerian project, corps members' contributions must transcend various social boundaries, noting that the country looks to them for fresh ideas, renewed hope, and promise of a brighter future.

He encouraged them to embrace diversity as strength and utilise this unique opportunity to build lasting cross-regional friendships, suggesting that bonds formed during camp might eventually shape the nation's future trajectory.

The governor expressed hope that this generation would demonstrate that peaceful coexistence remains achievable and that founding aspirations for a just, united, and indivisible nation remain attainable rather than merely aspirational, urging corps members toward continued discipline.

He assured corps members of the state government's commitment to their welfare and security, indicating that steps were underway to address deteriorating camp facility conditions.

He stated that the state government remains firmly committed to ensuring corps members' welfare and safety throughout their service year, taking deliberate steps to ensure security and comfort.

He assured corps members that their lives and property, alongside those of all state residents, would receive adequate protection against harassment or intimidation from individuals or groups harbouring ill intentions, acknowledging awareness of current infrastructure conditions at the orientation camp and promising that renovation work would commence shortly.

Earlier, the State Coordinator of the NYSC congratulated corps members on reaching this orientation milestone, urging them to take advantage of the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development programme given prevailing unemployment challenges nationally.

She explained that this programme remains among the scheme's flagship initiatives designed to address youth unemployment challenges, encouraging corps members to take the programme seriously by selecting skills and actively participating in all training sessions.

The Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, represented by another justice, administered the oath of allegiance to the corps members during the ceremony.