Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has urged National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members deployed to the state to serve with dedication and excellence, assuring them that diligence and commitment would inevitably be rewarded.
The governor gave the charge on Friday during the swearing-in ceremony of the 2026 NYSC Batch A, Stream 1 of corps members deployed to the state at its NYSC Orientation Camp in Umunna, Bende Local Government Area of the state.
According to InsideOut, Dr. Otti emphasised that regardless of where corps members are posted,whether to schools, hospitals, courts, or offices—their responsibility remains the same,to serve with excellence.
“Wherever you are posted school, hospital, court, or office—the task is the same. Serve with excellence, and the rewards will follow,” the governor stated.
He described service as a seed which, when nurtured with discipline, empathy, and commitment, grows into a life of purpose and leadership.
He encouraged the corps members to see their service year not merely as a national obligation, but as a unique opportunity to shape their future and build a foundation for long-term success.
According to the governor, Abia State is deliberate about rewarding excellence and has put systems in place that prioritise merit over state of origin.
He noted that the state is intentional about attracting and retaining top talent, irrespective of background.
Dr. Otti cited the example of the current Head of Service, Mr. Benson Ojeikere, an indigene of Edo State, who served his NYSC in Abia.
He explained that Ojeikere distinguished himself during his service year, emerged as the best corps member of his batch, and today leads the Abia State Civil Service.
“That is the kind of story we are proud to tell, and I hope many of you will replicate such excellence,” the governor said.
He also commended the Abia NYSC leadership, led by the State Coordinator, Mrs. Gladys Adama, for their dedication to the welfare and integration of corps members.
Dr. Otti assured them of the state government’s continued support, noting that investing in young people is an investment in the future of the state.
Reflecting on his own journey, the governor recalled serving his NYSC at Efon Alaaye, now in Ekiti State, describing the experience as pivotal in shaping his worldview and kick-starting his career.
“That experience laid the foundation for the path that eventually led me here. If that journey brought me to the office I now occupy, I believe these young Nigerians can go even further,” he said.
Dr. Otti urged the corps members to serve with passion, dream boldly, and make the most of what he described as a defining chapter in their lives.
