NYSC emphasises cultural diversity in promoting national unity
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has reiterated the importance of cultural diversity in promoting national unity and integration.
Mrs Martina Shuaibu-Ibrahim Coordinator of NYSC in Niger, said this during 2025 Batch B Stream II cultural carnival held at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Paikoro Local Government Area of Niger.
She noted that the cultural carnival incorporated into the orientation course contents in 2022 aimed at rewakening cultural consciousness among Nigerian youths.
Shuaibu-Ibrahim added that it provides a platform for cultural exchange and integration, particularly for those who may not have had the opportunity to appreciate other cultures.
“Our difference in ethnic and cultures are not walls of division but bridges and beautiful connections that bind us as one people.
“In every step of our dance, every fabric of our culture, every flavor of our food and every story we tell, we see the strength of a Nigeria that thrives because of our diversity,” she said.
She commended the corps members for their passion, enthusiasm, creativity and ability to represent other cultures.
The NYSC coordinator urged them to be heritage conservators linking tradition and modernity and remain good ambassadors.
She lauded Gov. Umaru Bago of Niger for his unwavering support to the scheme in the state and urged stakeholders of the scheme to continue to support the programme targeted towards national development and integration.
In his remarks, Dr Umar Bahago, Emir of Minna, commended NYSC for incorporating culture into the orientation programme.
Bahago, represented by Alhaji Salihu Garba, Mai Samari Minna, noted that culture defines the unity of Nigerians and appreciated the corps members efforts.
“The most impressive aspect of the carnival was the display I have seen Hausa boys displaying beautiful culture of Igbos, the Igbo boys also displaying culture of Yorubas, it is a very good thing,” he said.
The carnival featured cultural performances by twelve platoon groups showcasing the rich diversity of Nigerian cultures.
