•Cultural display
The Sagamu Orientation Camp in Ogun State came alive with vibrant colours and rhythms as the 2024 Batch C Stream One Orientation Course hosted a Cultural Carnival to celebrate Nigeria’s rich heritage.
Sponsored by Source Microfinance Bank and Mega Thandi Restaurant, the event showcased the beauty and diversity of Nigerian culture, with Corps Members taking centre stage in a stunning display of creativity and tradition.
Declaring the event open, the NYSC Ogun State Coordinator, Mrs. Olayinka Diana Nasamu, emphasized the equality of all cultures.
She urged Corps Members to take pride in the cultural groups they were assigned to represent, reminding them that “there is beauty in our diversity.”
The carnival featured Corps Members representing ten Nigerian cultures, with each platoon highlighting unique aspects of their assigned culture, including traditional attire, marriage customs, and local delicacies. The event offered a sensory delight while underlining the unifying essence of Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
Platoon 7 dazzled the audience with its representation of the Yoruba culture, earning the grand prize of ₦50,000. Platoon 3 secured second place, receiving ₦30,000 for their portrayal of Fulani culture, while Platoon 9 claimed third place and ₦20,000 with their presentation of the Itsekiri culture.
In his remarks, the Honourable Commissioner for Youth Development, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka, commended the NYSC for promoting national unity through such initiatives. He expressed amazement at the scale and impact of the event, pledging that the Commissioner for Culture and other government officials would attend subsequent editions of the carnival.
Other dignitaries in attendance included the Executive Chairman of Yewa North LGA, Hon. Dr. Olusola Akinbode; the Vice Chairman of Sagamu LGA, Comrade Isiaka Salami; the Special Adviser to the Governor on Youth, Mr. Olumide Lawal; and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Finance, Dr. Bayo Adenekan.
The event also featured an exhilarating Man-O-War display and a prize presentation for winners of the Big, Bold, and Beautiful competition, adding to the excitement. To crown the celebrations, an after-party was organized for Corps Members, creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere and leaving attendees with unforgettable memories.
