The Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has stated that his administration has empowered more than 36,000 youths across the state with various skills, emphasising that youths remain the greatest asset of any society.
Soludo stated that his government, guided by Anambra Vision 2070, is deliberately building a prosperous, inclusive, and smart society where young people are equipped to thrive.
He stated this on Friday at the swearing-in and opening ceremony of the 2026 Batch ‘A’ Stream 1 National Youth Service Corps orientation programme held at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Nnamdi Azikiwe Unity Camp, Mbaukwu/Umuawulu, Awka South Local Government Area.
The governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr Patrick Agha-Mba, urged corps members to avoid being passive observers, but rather immerse themselves in the Anambra experience to learn, create, collaborate and contribute meaningfully to the state’s development.
He said, “Guided by Anambra Vision 2070, we are deliberately building a prosperous, inclusive and smart society where young people are empowered to thrive.
“Through initiatives such as the Solution Innovation District, Code Anambra, One Youth Two Skills Plus, and targeted agribusiness and entrepreneurship schemes, we continue to open doors for skills acquisition, innovation and wealth creation.
“Over 36,000 youths have been empowered with digital skills, while the ongoing One Million Anambra Digital Tribe initiative is targeted at empowering one million Anambra youths with digital skills.
“My administration has also empowered 13,300 youths with skills and grants amounting to N5.5bn for business start-up and expansion under the first and second phases of the One Youth Two Skills Plus programme.”
Soludo urged corps members to internalise the values learnt during orientation, noting that these would determine their effectiveness during the service year and beyond.
He reassured them of his administration’s commitment to continuous improvement of camp facilities to ensure a safe, serene and enabling environment.
The governor also urged corps members to respect local cultures, promote peace, avoid harmful behaviour and conduct themselves with dignity and responsibility.
“Many before you have acquired digital skills, accessed grants, started businesses through these youth empowerment programmes and even chosen Anambra as their long-term home.
“You are encouraged to fully participate in these programmes. As you undergo orientation, discipline must remain your watchword.
“Obey camp rules, respect constituted authority and participate actively in all programmes. The values you internalise here will determine your effectiveness during the service year and beyond.
“Be solution-driven, identify challenges within your host communities and apply your knowledge creatively. True service is measured not by attendance but by impact,” he said.
Soludo commended the NYSC leadership at both national and state levels for their dedication and professionalism, noting that the state values its partnership with the scheme, particularly in grassroots development, public enlightenment, electoral support, health interventions and youth mentoring.
Earlier, the Anambra State Coordinator of the NYSC, Mrs Pauline Ojisua, disclosed that a total of 1,500 prospective corps members — comprising 616 males and 884 females — successfully registered for the exercise.
Ojisua urged them to obey all extant laws, NYSC regulations and security directives, and to conduct themselves as responsible ambassadors of their families, institutions and the nation.
She said, “Discipline remains the cornerstone of the scheme. Military drills, physical training and sporting activities will enhance physical fitness, mental alertness and team spirit.
“The Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development Programme will also equip corps members with practical skills for self-reliance beyond the service year.
“All camp officials, security agencies, medical teams and collaborating partners have been fully mobilised to ensure effective administration, welfare and security throughout the programme.”
