The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has called on Nigerian youths to harness the country’s rich cultural diversity as a means of promoting unity, peace, and national development.

The appeal was made by the Anambra State Coordinator of the NYSC, Pauline Ojisua, during the 2026 Batch ‘A’ Stream II Inter-Platoon Cultural Carnival held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe NYSC Unity Permanent Orientation Camp in Umuawulu/Mbaukwu, Awka South Local Government Area, on Saturday.

Ojisua explained that the cultural carnival was organised to showcase Nigeria’s cultural heritage while exposing corps members to opportunities within the creative and cultural sectors that could be transformed into wealth through business and export ventures.

According to her, Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity, noting that the country is home to over 250 ethnic groups with distinct languages, traditions, cuisines, music, fashion, and cultural values.

“Our diversity is not a barrier; rather, it is a bridge that binds us together in unity, peace and national development,” she said.

She added that the carnival serves as a reminder that despite ethnic and cultural differences, Nigerians remain united by a common destiny.

Ojisua commended corps members across the 10 platoons for their creativity, discipline, teamwork, and enthusiasm in preparing for the event.

“Your colourful displays reflect the true spirit of the National Youth Service Corps — promoting unity, selfless service, patriotism and mutual respect among Nigerians,” she stated.

The state coordinator also expressed appreciation to Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, for his support of the NYSC scheme in the state, while thanking traditional rulers and invited guests for their presence at the event.

“As we enjoy every dance, song, cuisine, fashion display and cultural performance presented by the platoons representing 10 diverse cultures, let us remember that Nigeria’s diversity remains her greatest strength and her greatest hope for a united future,” she added.

Quoting Jamaican political leader and Pan-Africanist Marcus Garvey, Ojisua said, “A people without the knowledge of their history, culture and values are like a tree without roots.”

She urged Nigerians to continue building a nation where all cultures are respected and every citizen feels included.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the Carnival Committee, Ben Obi, thanked God for sustaining the corps members throughout weeks of orientation camp activities.

Obi described the NYSC as a major platform for national integration, saying the carnival demonstrated that unity among Nigerians from different backgrounds is achievable.

“We celebrate unity in diversity with over 2,000 corps members from different states, tribes, languages and backgrounds under one flag, one anthem and one purpose, which is service to our fatherland,” he said.

He noted that the event provided corps members with an opportunity to set aside the routine of camp activities and celebrate the vibrant cultural heritage that defines Nigeria.

“Look around you, you will see Yoruba dancing with Igbo and Efik, Hausa vibing with Tiv, Benin and Urhobo, all on one parade ground as one family. This is Nigeria at its best,” Obi added.

Also speaking at the event, the traditional ruler of Umueri community in Anambra East Local Government Area, HRH Igwe Ben Emeka (Okebo II), described the NYSC scheme as one of the strongest instruments sustaining national unity and peaceful coexistence in Nigeria.

According to the monarch, programmes such as the orientation camp and cultural carnival have helped Nigerians better understand one another’s traditions and way of life.

“It’s a welcome development. I am highly impressed. It is very significant to Nigeria’s unity. It promotes unity among Nigerian youths,” he said.

He added that what he witnessed at the orientation camp reflected the continued relevance of Nigeria’s national motto, “Peace, Unity and Progress.”

The monarch further assured corps members of the continued support of traditional rulers in Anambra State and across the South-East, encouraging them to maintain the friendships and relationships they formed during their stay in the state.