Cultural Carnival: Anambra State Governor Commends NYSC

 

The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, praised Corps members for their efforts in showcasing Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage at the NYSC Anambra cultural carnival held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe NYSC Unity Permanent Orientation Camp in Umuawulu/Mbaukwu, Awka South Local Government Area.

The colorful event featured traditional attire, energetic dance performances, and melodious music, highlighting the country’s diverse culture.

The State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, represented by the Commissioner of Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, Mr Don Onyenji, expressed his appreciation for the Corps members’ dedication to showcasing Nigeria’s cultural diversity.

He emphasized the potential for future cultural collaborations between the NYSC and the state, particularly during state cultural festivals.

In her keynote address, State Coordinator Mrs. Blessing Ekene Iruma highlighted the cultural carnival as a powerful expression of NYSC’s role in national integration.

She praised the Corps members for their creativity and dedication in presenting their cultural performances, stating, “This is a moment for us to appreciate our differences, not as divides but as bonds that strengthen our national identity.”

The event also featured remarks from the State Commissioner of Youth Development, Hon. Patrick Aghamba, delivered by the Permanent Secretary in his ministry, Engr. Martin Agbili.

He commended the Corps members for their outstanding performances and their efforts in promoting cultural awareness and unity.

The Managing Director of Anambra Broadcasting Service Awka, Mr. Joseph Molokwu, who also addressed the Corps members, encouraged them to seek excellence during their service year to enjoy the equal opportunities provided by Anambra State.

Distinguished guests, including the traditional ruler of Umuawulu, Igwe Joel Maduadichie Egwuonwu, and Mr. Peter Nwosu, CEO of Peter Nupeng Oil & Gas Ltd., graced the ceremony with their presence, emphasizing the event’s significance.

The competition was fierce, with platoons vying for top honors in various categories. The winners were:

*Best Decorative Canopy:*
– 3rd Position: Platoon 1
– 2nd Position: Platoon 3
– 1st Position: Platoon 5

*Best King and Queen Attire:*
– 3rd Position: Platoon 1
– 2nd Position: Platoon 8
– 1st Position: Platoon 5

*Overall Carnival Winners:*
– 3rd Position: Platoon 8
– 2nd Position: Platoon 5
– 1st Position: Platoon 3

The carnival featured impressive martial arts presentations, blending language and physicality, as well as cultural presentations by platoons 1 to 10. Each platoon represented a different tribe, sharing their history, culture, and lifestyle through music, dance, and drama. Highlights included:

– Platoon 1: Presentation of the Tiv tribe
– Platoon 2: Showcase of Yoruba culture
– Platoon 3: Depiction of Efik culture
– Platoon 4: Presentation of Igbo culture
– Platoon 5: Presentation of Awka cultural heritage
– Platoon 6: Showcase of Idoma cultural heritage
– Platoon 7: Engaging Urhobo drama, heritage, and dance
– Platoon 8: Portrayal of Hausa/Fulani marriage system
– Platoon 9: Demonstration of Gbagi culture
– Platoon 10: Storytelling through Ijaw cultural heritage

Other awards included the Target and Throw competition, won by Platoon 6, and the Can Filling Contest, won by Platoon 3.

The overall results of the competition saw Platoon 3 taking the top spot, followed by Platoon 5 and Platoon 1 as first and second runners-up, respectively.

The NYSC Anambra Cultural Carnival was a resounding success, filled with joy, excitement, and a sense of unity.

The event not only celebrated Nigeria’s cultural heritage but also reinforced the importance of collaboration and understanding among its diverse ethnic groups.

Various awards and cash prizes were presented to deserving Corps members, leaving an indelible mark on all who attended.

 

 

 

 

 

Victoria Ibanga