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Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo has urged corps members posted to the state to take seriously the oath they took while being sworn in, describing it as solemn commitment that should guide their conduct throughout the service year.
Soludo gave the advice on Friday during the formal opening of the 2026 Batch ‘C’ Stream 1 Orientation Course and swearing in ceremony at the Nnamdi Azikiwe NYSC unity permanent orientation camp, Umuawulu/Mbaukwu in Awka South local government area.
The governor, represented by Commissioner for Youth Development, Patrick Aghamba also urged them to always remember the oath anytime they were tempted to compromise their duty, confronted with dishonesty as well as when service became difficult.
He said, “A few moments ago, you took the Oath of Allegiance, administered by the Chief Judge of Anambra State. I urge you to take that oath seriously. An oath is a solemn commitment. Let it guide your conduct throughout the service year.
“When you are tempted to compromise your duty, remember your oath. When confronted with dishonesty, remember your oath. When service becomes difficult, remember your oath.
“Respect constituted authority, obey the rules of the NYSC, respect your colleagues and host communities, and conduct yourselves as worthy ambassadors of your families, institutions and Nigeria.”
Describing corps members as not merely visitors to Anambra, but ambassadors and potential partners in the state’s development, Soludo urged them to respect the culture and traditions of their host communities.
He added, “Build relationships with your host communities. Learn from the people, and allow them to benefit from your knowledge and skills.
“Please also remain security-conscious. Your safety is important to us. Avoid unnecessary risks and promptly report security concerns through the appropriate channels.
“The Government of Anambra State values the NYSC and will continue to support initiatives that promote the welfare, safety and productivity of Corps Members serving in the State.
“Do not spend this year asking only: “What will Nigeria give me?”Ask instead: “What can I give Nigeria?” That is the mindset of citizenship. Serve with integrity. Serve with discipline. Serve with compassion. Serve with courage. Serve with innovation.
“At the end of this year, do not measure your service only by your Certificate of National Service. Measure it by the lives you touched, skills you acquired, problems you solved and people you inspired.
“When you eventually leave Anambra, I want you to be able to say:”I came to Anambra as a Corps Member, but I left as a better Nigerian and a friend of Anambra.”
Earlier, NYSC State Coordinator, Mrs Pauline Ojisua said a total of 1,620 Corps Members, comprising 682 males and 938 females were registered for the exercise, describing as encouraging enthusiasm their response to various camp activities.
He appreciated State Government for its continued support to the Scheme, just as she appealed for continued intervention from the State and Local Governments, particularly in areas requiring infrastructural improvement and enhanced welfare facilities.
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