NYSC commemorates 50th anniversary in A’Ibom

Akpan Umoh, Uyo

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) on Monday, commemorated its 50th anniversary in Akwa Ibom with a road walk by management, staff and corps members across major streets in the Uyo metropolis.

The NYSC State Coordinator in Akwa Ibom, Mrs Chinyere Ekwe, who led corps members on the road walk said the Scheme has impacted positively the development of the nation.

Our correspondent reported that the theme of the Golden Jubilee celebrations is: “Five Decades of Fostering National Unity and Development.”

Ekwe said that NYSC in the last 50 years has contributed its quota to the development of the nation in the areas of agriculture, education, healthcare, community development and economy, among others.

“I am most delighted to inform you and the general public that NYSC is celebrating 50 years on May 22, NYSC is 50 and still counting. We are strong, united and have been developing the nation in so many ways and we will continue to do that by God’s Grace.

“NYSC has impacted on the nation in healthcare, education, agriculture, community service and all facets of the economy. NYSC will continue to be there, the young men and women are doing great.

“So, my dear children we are kick-starting NYSC at fifth in the state. We are going on a unity walk.

“We are all going to participate in these celebrations because is a thing of joy because the time you were serving NYSC is 50. God has designed that you should be the one to celebrate NYSC @ 50,” Ekwe said.

Ekwe added that NYSC should be celebrated for promoting national unity and integration, development of education, healthcare delivery, as well as social and infrastructure development.

She said that during the celebrations, corps members would be given the opportunity to showcase the skills on what they have produced through the Skills Acquisition Entrepreneurship Development Programme (SAED) to members of the public.

According to her, other activities lined up for the celebrations include; an anniversary lecture, Exhibitions, a novelty football match, Jumat service, a visit to an orphanage home, NYSC Golden Jubilee award night and a Thanksgiving Service. NYSC scheme was established in 1973 by former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (rtd), to foster national unity and integration.