The NYSC Ogun State Orientation Camp in Sagamu was aglow with colour, rhythm, and tradition as the 2025 Batch B Stream One Corps Members staged a lively Cultural Carnival, celebrating Nigeria’s unity in diversity while also applauding the motherly care of the State Coordinator, Mrs. Olayinka Diana Nasamu.
The event, one of the most anticipated highlights of the Orientation Course, brought together Corps Members from across the country to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria. Each of the ten platoons represented a distinct ethnic group, re-enacting marriage rites, donning traditional attire, performing dances, and presenting local delicacies.
Declaring the carnival open, Mrs. Nasamu charged the Corps Members to be proud ambassadors of their assigned cultures, stressing that no culture is superior to another. She explained that the competition would be judged based on how accurately and creatively each platoon presented the traditions they represented.
Platoon 7 dazzled the audience with their Igbo cultural display to clinch first place, while Platoon 8’s Tiv performance secured second, and Platoon 2’s Yoruba showcase came in third. The atmosphere was further lifted with a spirited Man-O-War demonstration that underscored teamwork and resilience.
The event reached an emotional climax when a Corps Member, Miss Ako Victory Omegle (Code LA/25A/2712), stepped forward to present a handmade crochet jacket to the State Coordinator as an early birthday gift. Fighting back tears, she explained that the gesture was born out of deep gratitude for the warmth, encouragement, and motherly love Mrs. Nasamu had shown to all Corps Members throughout the Orientation Course. The surprise gift drew resounding applause and cheers from fellow Corps Members, who echoed her sentiments.
The Cultural Carnival, which ended with an energetic after-party, not only entertained but also strengthened bonds among the Corps Members, reminding all of the NYSC’s core mandate of promoting unity in diversity.