On October 2, 2026, Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, addressed the 2026 Batch C Stream of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members deployed to Enugu State. During the swearing-in ceremony in Awgu, Mbah emphasized the importance of building a nation that earns the patriotism of young people. He stressed that Nigeria's youth population can become a demographic dividend if the nation provides quality education, skills, jobs, and institutions that enable them to convert their energy and talent into productivity and prosperity.
Mbah highlighted that patriotism must be cultivated by creating a country where young people can see a future for themselves. He urged Nigerians to ask themselves how they can earn the patriotism of their young people if they feel excluded from their country's promise. The governor emphasized that merit should be rewarded, hard work should have meaning, and dreams should not have to be exported before they can become a reality. He encouraged the youth to refuse to give up on Nigeria's possibilities, even when the country is imperfect.
The governor also urged the youth to consider what they can give to Nigeria, not just what they can get from the country. He emphasized that patriotism demands something from them, both in good and difficult times. Mbah encouraged them to ask themselves what they can do to change Nigeria, rather than simply asking when Nigeria will change. He assured them of their welfare, safety, and comfort in Enugu State, highlighting the state's rich cosmopolitan history.
A total of 2,101 corps members were sworn in, comprising 983 males and 1,118 females. The NYSC State Coordinator, Mrs. Oluwakemi Awolola, thanked Governor Mbah for his administration's commitment to the welfare, security, and general wellbeing of corps members. She reported that the corps members have been cooperative, enthusiastic, and willing to participate in camp activities.
Awolola expressed gratitude for the governor's comprehensive intervention and overhaul of facilities at the NYSC Orientation Camp, Agwu. She also appreciated the improved welfare support and allowances promised to serving corps members. The Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development in Enugu State, Barr. Lloyd Ekweremadu, and the Chairman of Awgu, Hon. Uchenna Okolo, assured the corps members of collaborative efforts to ensure they have the best service experience in Enugu State.
The new corps members were sworn in by the Chief Judge of Enugu State, Justice Afojulu Ozoemena, represented by Justice Anthony Onovo. The event featured a parade by the Batch 'C' intakes. Governor Mbah also toured the NYSC Orientation Camp, Awgu, where he inspected completed and ongoing projects by his administration to make the Camp conducive for the corps members.
Mbah's address emphasized that 'japa' should be a choice, not an escape route. He encouraged the youth to build a country where they can travel the world without feeling compelled to abandon their home. The governor's message aimed to inspire a sense of patriotism and citizenship among the young corps members.
Key points
- Governor Mbah urges Nigerian youths to choose patriotism over escape.
- Enugu State Governor swears in 2,101 NYSC corps members.
- Mbah assures corps members of their welfare, safety, and comfort in Enugu State.
