NYSC Marks 50th Anniversary, Counts Achievements In Abia | DETAILS +PHOTOS

The NYSC Scheme is a program set up in 1973 by the then military regime of Yakubu Gowon to engage Nigerian graduates in nation-building, development and unification of the country.

Speaking at the government House Umuahia, the Abia State Coordinator of the NYSC, Mrs Dick- Iruenabere Ufuoma, recalled their numerous achievements since the inception of the scheme to include; skills acquisition to help the youths be self employed after service and not depend entirely on the government, education, participating in election processes, among others.

She noted that the scheme has continued to breed unification among the varying ethnic groups which was the major purpose for its creation.

Responding, governor Okezie Ikpeazu, represented by Chief Charles Esonu, commissioner for youths and sports in Abia State, noted that the Scheme has lived up to it's vision of mobilizing and grooming graduate youths for national unity, integration, sustainable development, among others.

The governor lauded the NYSC for their contribution to the society, adding that it has become the leading light of youth organisation not just in Nigeria but in Africa.

"There is no gainsaying that the scheme during this 50 years of existence has fulfilled the mandate of mobilising and grooming graduate youths for the promotion of national unity and integration, sustainable development, self reliant and preparing them for the challenges of leadership" the governor said.

Speaking with ALL FACTS NEWSPAPER, one of the corps members, Terese Tauershima Robert noted that he is fortunate to be a part of the scheme at 50, adding that the NYSC Scheme has succeeded in bridging the cultural gap and giving everyone an equal sense of belonging.

"50 years of national integration, co-existence; its a thing of joy for me because we are Nigerians and we are supposed to be one family.

"we are celebrating national unity in the crossroad where all divergent culture meet to harmonise. Nigerians are wonderfully made with good culture and skills which NYSC has brought us together to appreciate others culture, not to undermine anyone but to give them all a sense of belonging" Tauershima stated.

He also appreciated the NYSC for giving the youths an opportunity to acquire skills which will make them self employed and contribute to the nation.

Similarly, Joy Godo said;

"I feel special being part of NYSC when it is marking it's golden age. We have peace and unity as a result of what NYSC is doing".

She appreciated the Federal Government, Abia state government and NYSC officials for creating a conducive environment to unify, be conversant with various cultures and also acquire skills.

Highpoint of the celebration was the Corps members going on a road walk, displaying arts and cultural dance.

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[caption id="attachment_163657" align="alignnone" width="1006"] Corps members in Abia state celebrating NYSC at 50[/caption]