The Abia Coordinator of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Alhaji Yunusa Tanimu, has said the scheme remains one of Nigeria’s most enduring nation-building institutions as it marked its 53rd anniversary.
He said this on Friday at the anniversary event held at the NYSC Abia Secretariat in Umuahia.
Tanimu said the scheme, established in 1973, in the aftermath of the civil war, was designed to foster unity, promote mutual understanding, and encourage national integration among Nigerian youths.
“Fifty-three years later, it is gratifying to note that the NYSC has continued to play this vital role with remarkable impact,” he said.
He noted that 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 have also acquired valuable experiences, built lifelong relationships across ethnic and religious lines, and contributed meaningfully to national progress,” he added.
Tanimu said 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 NYSC Abia Secretariat 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,” he said.
The coordinator 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 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.”
He called on Nigerians to renew their commitment to national unity, peaceful coexistence, and selfless service as the scheme marked the milestone.
The event featured the cutting of the anniversary cake, a celebration rally within the secretariat complex and a cultural dance display by the Abia dance troupe.
The colourful event also featured presentations on the history of the scheme by corps members in different Nigerian languages.
