Abia State Governor Alex Otti has assured National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members serving in the state of automatic employment if they distinguish themselves during their service year.
Otti gave the assurance at the swearing-in ceremony of the 2026 Batch ‘A’, Stream 1 corps members at the NYSC permanent orientation camp, Umunna, Bende Local Government Area.
The governor said Abia places high value on excellence and merit, stressing that employment opportunities would be based on performance and capacity to add value, not state of origin.
“Our eyes will be on you in your places of primary assignment, and those who acquit themselves creditably will get automatic employment in relevant public sector establishments,” Otti said.
He added that Abia has a long history of rewarding exceptional corps members with employment, noting the current Head of Service, Mr. Benson Ojeikere, who began as a corps member and ascended through the ranks to become the state’s top public servant, despite being from Edo State.
Otti stated that his administration is creating a state capable of recruiting and maintaining top talent via persistent investment in social infrastructure, and he encouraged corps members to make the most of their service year and the opportunities offered in Abia.
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He restated his administration’s support for the NYSC program and asked the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, to begin Phase II upgrades to the orientation camp.
He stated that the renovation will include the installation of internal roads, a pavilion with finished ceilings and fans, and the regrassing of the sports field.
Earlier, Sir Ananaba advised corps members to follow camp rules and take the orientation course seriously, emphasizing that the state values hard labor and effective community development service. He praised the governor for raising corps members’ allowances and enhancing camp facilities.
Speaking on behalf of the NYSC Director-General, the State Coordinator Barr. Gladys Adama characterized the orientation session as critical in preparing corps members for a successful service year.
She praised Otti for his persistent assistance, which included camp restoration, the construction of internal roads, the installation of 46 solar-powered street lights, improved feeding, and an increased state stipend.
The occasion saw 1,820 corps members sworn in, including 804 males and 1,016 girls. Justice Lilian Agbai, Chief Judge of Abia State, delivered the oath of allegiance, represented by Justice C.E. Anyim.
