Awgu, Enugu State — A new wave of patriotism and national service has taken root in Enugu State as hundreds of prospective corps members were officially sworn into the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) during the 2026 Batch B Stream I Orientation Course.

The ceremony, held at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Awgu Local Government Area, marked the formal commencement of the one-year national service programme, drawing a distinguished gathering of government officials, traditional rulers, security agencies, and community leaders in a strong show of support for Nigeria’s next generation of leaders.

Representing the Executive Chairman of Awgu LGA, Hon. Uchenna Joseph Okolo, the Chief of Staff, Ndubuisi Nwaudeigwe, welcomed the corps members and congratulated them on reaching a significant milestone in their academic and civic journey.

He described the NYSC scheme as a vital platform for promoting unity, cultural integration, and national development, urging the corps members to seize the opportunity to make meaningful contributions to their host communities.

Nwaudeigwe also commended the Governor of Enugu State, Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, for his administration’s developmental strides, particularly in infrastructure and security. He noted that the governor’s efforts have positioned Enugu among the safest states in the country, providing a conducive environment for corps members to thrive.

Assuring participants of their safety, he emphasized that robust security collaborations between relevant agencies and camp authorities are in place to ensure a peaceful and successful orientation exercise.

Delivering the governor’s address, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Lloyd Ikechukwu Ekweremadu, charged the corps members to approach their service year with dedication, discipline, and professionalism.

He highlighted Enugu State’s rapid transformation into a hub of innovation and economic growth, driven by sectors such as technology, agriculture, tourism, education, and industry.

“Enugu State is a land of opportunities,” he stated. “We are building a modern economy where ideas are nurtured, innovation thrives, and young people can achieve their full potential.”

Ekweremadu encouraged the corps members to go beyond routine service by identifying challenges in their host communities and developing impactful solutions. He also urged them to actively participate in the NYSC Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme as a pathway to self-reliance and wealth creation.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment, he assured that the welfare, safety, and overall well-being of corps members remain a top priority, with sustained collaboration between the state government, NYSC management, and security stakeholders.

The commissioner further commended the State NYSC Coordinator, Oluwakemi Awolola, for her leadership and dedication to the successful execution of the scheme in Enugu State.

The high point of the ceremony was the administration of the Oath of Allegiance, formally inducting the corps members into national service and setting the stage for a year of leadership, community development, and nation-building.

With the official declaration of the orientation course open, Enugu State once again reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to youth empowerment, security, and the creation of opportunities that enable young Nigerians to thrive and contribute meaningfully to national development.