The Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has restated his administration’s commitment to youth development, entrepreneurship, and continuous upgrading of facilities at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Orientation Camp in the state.

Governor Otti made the pledge during the swearing-in ceremony of the 2026 Batch ‘B’ Stream I corps members deployed to Abia State, held at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Umunna, Bende Local Government Area. He was represented at the event by the Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, FNSE.

Welcoming the corps members to Abia State, the governor described their participation in the service year as a clear demonstration of patriotism and commitment to national development. He urged them to take full advantage of the orientation programme to prepare for a productive service year.

Governor Otti also reaffirmed plans to further upgrade camp infrastructure, disclosing that the state government would soon begin the second phase of the camp’s renovation.

“Very soon, we shall commence the second phase of the retrofitting of this camp, which will include the completion of hostel facilities, including staff hostels, as well as the construction of a separate parade ground and other essential facilities,” he said.

He explained that the intervention is aimed at creating a more conducive environment that supports learning, personal growth, and the welfare of corps members serving in the state.

The governor further encouraged corps members to embrace entrepreneurship and financial discipline, urging them to take advantage of the NYSC Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme as well as other available support schemes.

“Develop a culture of savings, spend wisely, and explore the various business funding opportunities available through the NYSC and other support schemes,” he advised, noting that financial discipline is key to building sustainable ventures after service.

He also charged the corps members to uphold values such as discipline, integrity, loyalty, and dedication to national service, urging them to contribute meaningfully to their host communities through impactful initiatives.

Governor Otti reaffirmed that his administration remains committed to strengthening the NYSC scheme in Abia State and enhancing its role in youth empowerment, leadership development, and national integration.

Earlier, the Chairman of the NYSC Governing Board in Abia State and Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Jane Igwe, welcomed the corps members and urged them to take the orientation course seriously.

He commended Governor Otti for his continued support for the scheme, especially in infrastructure renewal and welfare improvements, noting that recent upgrades have enhanced NYSC operations in the state.

The NYSC State Coordinator, Mr. Yunusa Tanimu, also expressed appreciation to the state government for its consistent support, describing the scheme as a vital platform for national unity and youth empowerment.

He said the orientation course would expose corps members to leadership training, security awareness, entrepreneurship development, and other programmes designed to prepare them for effective service.

The highlight of the event was the administration of the oath of allegiance by the Chief Judge of Abia State, Hon. Justice Lilian Abai, represented by Hon. Justice Chido Nwakanma, formally inducting the corps members into national service and declaring the orientation course open.

The ceremony was attended by top government officials, security commanders, traditional rulers, and community leaders, reflecting broad institutional support for the NYSC programme in Abia State.