From TCNEWS
The Abia State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to youth development, entrepreneurship, and national integration, as Governor Dr. Alex Otti officially declared open the 2025 Batch ‘B’ Stream I Orientation Course of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) at the Umunna Bende Permanent Orientation Camp on Friday, August 1, 2025.
Represented by Mrs. Nnanna Nkele Onu of the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, the Governor addressed a total of 1,592 newly registered Corps Members, urging them to embrace discipline, creativity, and national service with a sense of purpose and optimism.
In a speech that centered on empowerment and patriotism, Governor Otti encouraged the Corps Members to take full advantage of the orientation programme, which he described as “a critical period for acquiring the mindset, skills, and resilience needed to thrive during and beyond their service year.”
“Our administration is focused on creating an enabling environment for innovation, entrepreneurship, and social mobility,” the Governor said. “We are actively investing in infrastructure, including rehabilitation of this orientation camp, to support your growth.”
Highlighting the synergy between the NYSC and the state’s economic transformation agenda, Governor Otti praised the scheme’s Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme for its role in reducing unemployment and preparing youths for self-reliance. He also announced that the state is considering the introduction of a monthly stipend for Corps Members posted to government institutions, in line with prevailing economic realities.
“With the monthly allowance of ₦77,000 from the Federal Government and additional stipends from your Places of Primary Assignment, I encourage you to manage your finances wisely and explore funding opportunities offered during your service year,” the Governor added.
In her remarks, the NYSC Abia State Coordinator, Barr. (Mrs.) Gladys Adama, welcomed the Corps Members and dignitaries to the event, noting that the orientation course officially began on July 30, 2025, with the registration of the Corps Members—759 males and 833 females.
Adama reaffirmed the NYSC’s commitment to partnering with the Abia State Government in promoting human capital development across various sectors. She called on Corps Employers across the state to submit their requests for Corps Members in line with their manpower needs.
“The camping experience is designed to mentally and physically prepare you for national service,” she told the Corps Members. “You are encouraged to acquire at least two entrepreneurial skills before the end of your service year.”
Mrs. Adama also expressed gratitude to the state government for its continued support to the NYSC, especially for maintaining a peaceful environment for the operations of the scheme.
The ceremony not only marks the official commencement of national service for nearly 1,600 Nigerian graduates but also reflects Abia State’s commitment to youth empowerment and national development. With initiatives aimed at fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, the event showcases the synergy between federal and state efforts to reduce youth unemployment and promote unity through service.
The highlight of the ceremony was the administration of the Oath of Allegiance to the Corps Members by Hon. Justice C.U. Okoroafor, who represented the Chief Judge of Abia State, Hon. Justice Lilian Abai.
Also in attendance were Major T.B. Umole, representing the Commander, 14 Brigade Nigerian Army, Ohafia; ACP Alabi Adebowale of the Nigeria Police Force; and CAC Samuel Uchenna of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), all of whom reaffirmed their institutions’ support for the NYSC scheme.
