By Chukwuka Ugokwe
Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo has described carnivals as one of the cardinal ways of reviving and preserving the nation’s rich cultural heritage.
The Governor stated this during the 2025 Batch C Stream 1 inter platoon cultural carnival held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe NYSC Unity Orientation Camp Umuawulu/ Mbaukwu.
The carnival showcased the nation’s rich cultural heritage featuring diverse range of activities including dance performances, fashion parade, traditional music, elaborate costumes and displays.
While commending the Corps Members for their creativity, he acknowledged the lofty initiative by the NYSC in providing a platform for fostering integration
Governor Soludo, represented by the Commissioner For Culture, Tourism and, Entertainment, Hon Dom Onyenji, noted that the corps members had demonstrated their ability to protect the nation’s cultural heritage.
He underscored the need to celebrate such activities to strengthen ties, but quickly urged Corps Members to also imbibe the positive core values of cultures
Acknowledging government’s commitment to cultural revival, he highlighted various youth engagement intervention programmes in the state.
In his address, the State Commissioner For Youth Development, Hon Patrick Agha Mba, said the carnival would promote national unity and integration among Nigerians from various ethnic backgrounds.
“This carnival is a proof that despite our different backgrounds, we can come together in mutual respect and appreciation, celebrating what makes us unique while recognizing the shared values that bind us.
“The cultural carnival is a shining example of how our youth can build bridges across cultures and contribute to national development”
Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Engr Martin’s Agbili, he expressed gratitude to the NYSC leadership for staging the event, affirming government commitment to empowering young people and driving integration.
Earlier, the State NYSC Coordinator, Mrs Pauline Ojisua, described the carnival as a celebration of colour, identity, and shared nationhood.
” This cultural carnival is more than entertainment. It is a symbolic reflection of our nation’s rich cultural diversity of over 250 ethnic groups woven together by history, resilience, and hope.
” Through the creativity,we affirm that our differences are not walls but bridges, not sources of conflict,but foundations for unity, peace, and sustainable development”
