FIC Report (Abia State) – Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, and the NYSC State Coordinator, Yunusa Tanimu, have charged members of the 2026 Batch ‘B’ Stream I of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) deployed to the state to embrace entrepreneurship, discipline, and innovation as they begin their one-year national service.
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony held at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Umunna, Bende Local Government Area, Governor Otti welcomed the corps members to Abia State and urged them to maximize the opportunities provided during the orientation programme.
The Governor said his administration remains committed to creating an enabling environment that promotes innovation, entrepreneurship, and social mobility, noting that ongoing investments in camp infrastructure would further improve the welfare of corps members and staff.
He disclosed that the state government would soon commence the second phase of the camp’s rehabilitation, including the completion of hostel facilities, staff accommodation, and the construction of a separate parade ground.
Governor Otti also advised the corps members to manage their finances prudently, save part of their monthly allowances, and take advantage of NYSC’s entrepreneurship and business development programmes to become self-reliant after service.
Earlier In his address, NYSC State Coordinator Yunusa Tanimu described the orientation course as a critical platform for preparing young graduates for nation-building and leadership. He commended the corps members for their discipline, dedication, and eagerness to learn since arriving at camp.
Tanimu appealed to local government councils and corps employers to provide decent accommodation and welfare support for corps members, emphasizing that such measures would motivate them to serve with greater commitment and effectiveness.
He also expressed appreciation to Governor Otti for the administration’s continued support to the NYSC scheme, including improvements to camp facilities and welfare initiatives.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the NYSC Governing Board and Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, represented by Permanent Secretary, Ministry of sports and youth development,Mrs Jane Igwe , urged the corps members to take every aspect of the orientation course seriously, stressing that the programme would equip them with the skills and knowledge required for a successful service year.
The ceremony featured the administration of the Oath of Allegiance by the Chief Judge of Abia State, Lilian Abai, represented by Justice Chido Nwakanma,officially declaring the 2026 Batch ‘B’ Stream I Orientation Course open in Abia State.
The event attracted top government officials, security chiefs, traditional rulers, community leaders, and other stakeholders from across the state.
Amah Ijeoma
FIC Correspondent office of the Deputy Governor
15/07/2026
