By Our Correspondent

National News – The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has urged Nigerian youths to embrace diversity as a tool for national unity, peace, and development during a cultural carnival held in Anambra State.

The event took place on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at the NYSC Unity Permanent Orientation Camp in Umuawulu/Mbaukwu, Awka South Local Government Area.

The State Coordinator, Pauline Ojisua, stated that Nigeria, with over 250 ethnic groups, remains stronger when its cultural differences are used to build bridges rather than divisions.

She explained that the Inter-Platoon Cultural Carnival, organised for Batch ‘A’ Stream II corps members, showcased traditional dances, cuisine, fashion, and music from across the country.

According to her, the programme was designed to promote national integration, entrepreneurship, and cultural appreciation.

She praised corps members for their discipline, creativity, and teamwork, noting that the exercise reflects the core values of the NYSC scheme, which include unity, selfless service, and patriotism.

She also appreciated Governor Chukwuma Soludo and traditional rulers for their support.

The carnival featured corps members from 10 platoons representing different cultural backgrounds across Nigeria, highlighting Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, Efik, Tiv, Urhobo, and Benin traditions in colourful displays.

Chairman of the event committee, Ben Obi, said the NYSC scheme remains one of the strongest instruments for national integration, as over 2,000 corps members lived and trained together in unity despite ethnic and linguistic differences.

He added that the event allowed participants to temporarily move away from camp routines to celebrate Nigeria’s cultural richness through performances, dances, and exhibitions.

In his remarks, the traditional ruler of Umueri, HRH Igwe Ben Emeka (Okebo II), described NYSC as a key driver of unity in Nigeria, noting that cultural exchange programmes help youths understand and respect one another better.

He urged corps members to maintain friendships formed during service year.

The event reinforced the message that Nigeria’s diversity, when properly harnessed, remains its greatest strength for sustainable peace and progress.

It also emphasized the role of youth in nation-building and peaceful coexistence across regions.