The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has bestowed a distinguished leadership award upon Mrs. Olayinka Nasamu, the Ogun State Coordinator of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), recognizing her exceptional contributions to youth entrepreneurship and cultural promotion within the NYSC scheme. Professor Peter Okebukola, Director of the UNESCO Institute for African Culture and International Understanding, presented the award during the 2025 Batch A Stream II Cultural Carnival held at the NYSC Orientation Camp in Sagamu, Ogun State. The award acknowledges Nasamu’s unwavering dedication to empowering young Nigerians through entrepreneurial initiatives and her commitment to fostering cultural diversity among corps members. Professor Okebukola, a former Executive Secretary of the National University Commission, emphasized that UNESCO’s recognition stemmed from its continuous monitoring of Nasamu’s impactful contributions to youth development in Ogun State. The official notification of this prestigious award will also be conveyed to the Director General of the NYSC.
The award ceremony served as the highlight of the vibrant cultural carnival, a core component of the NYSC Orientation Programme. The carnival showcased Nigeria’s rich cultural tapestry through the enthusiastic participation of corps members organized into ten platoons. Each platoon meticulously prepared presentations reflecting diverse cultural expressions, including traditional dances, attire, culinary traditions, and customary rites. This spectacular display provided a platform for corps members to immerse themselves in the nation’s cultural heritage, fostering a sense of unity and appreciation for the country’s diverse traditions. The event drew a distinguished audience comprising industry leaders, service chiefs, and government officials, all united in celebrating the spirit of cultural diversity.
The cultural parade culminated in a competitive showcase, with Platoon Seven emerging as the overall winner for their captivating depiction of the Hausa/Fulani culture. Their performance resonated with the judges and audience alike, earning them top honors among the participating platoons. Platoon 4 secured the second position with their vibrant presentation of the Tiv culture, followed by Platoon 1’s portrayal of the Itsekiri people, which earned them the third position. These presentations not only highlighted the unique traditions of each cultural group but also demonstrated the corps members’ dedication to understanding and appreciating the diverse heritage of their fellow Nigerians.
The carnival’s emphasis on cultural diversity underscores the NYSC’s overarching goal of fostering national unity and integration. By bringing together young graduates from across the country, the NYSC creates a unique environment for cross-cultural exchange and understanding. The cultural carnival serves as a microcosm of this national objective, providing a platform for corps members to learn from one another, celebrate their differences, and forge lasting bonds of friendship that transcend ethnic and regional boundaries. This immersive experience contributes significantly to building a sense of shared national identity and promoting peaceful coexistence among diverse communities.
Beyond the cultural displays, the carnival fostered a lively and interactive atmosphere. An after-party followed the formal proceedings, offering corps members and guests a relaxed setting to unwind and reflect on the day’s events. This informal gathering provided an opportunity for further interaction and networking, strengthening the sense of camaraderie and shared purpose among the participants. The relaxed ambiance encouraged open conversations and informal exchanges, fostering deeper connections between corps members from different backgrounds. This social interaction contributed to the overall objective of building a cohesive and integrated NYSC community.
In essence, the UNESCO award bestowed upon Mrs. Nasamu and the vibrant cultural carnival exemplify the NYSC’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals equipped to contribute meaningfully to national development. By recognizing and promoting both entrepreneurial skills and cultural understanding, the NYSC prepares young Nigerians to become active and responsible citizens. The emphasis on entrepreneurship empowers corps members to become self-reliant and contribute to economic growth, while the celebration of cultural diversity fosters national unity and social cohesion. These twin pillars of the NYSC program contribute significantly to the development of a strong and prosperous Nigeria.
