A total of 1,743 corps members have been sworn into the 2026 Batch A Stream II orientation course in Abia State, with Governor Alex Otti assuring that those who excel during their service year will receive automatic employment from the state government.

The swearing in ceremony took place on Friday at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Umunna, Bende Local Government Area, with the oath of allegiance administered by the Chief Judge of Abia State, Lilian Abai, represented by Hon Justice Collington Okoroafor.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Sports and Youth Development, Mrs Jane Igwe, the governor reaffirmed the state's tradition of rewarding exceptional corps members with direct employment.

"Our State has a long tradition of offering automatic employment to corps members who excel in their service year. Your case will not be different," Otti stated.

He described human capital as Abia's greatest asset and pledged that his administration would make the service year meaningful for all deployed members. "One thing I can immediately assure you is that this government shall do everything within our powers to make your time in the state meaningful," he added.

The governor also cautioned corps members against misconduct, warning that the consequences of poor choices could be long lasting. "You must guard against the attractions of reckless behaviour and indiscipline as the long term harm may be irreversible," he warned.

Otti described Abia as one of Nigeria's safest states for national service, urging corps members to resist pressure to seek alternative postings. "You are therefore encouraged not to entertain any anxiety or lobby to be posted to any special place," he noted.

NYSC State Coordinator Yunusa Tanimu confirmed that the 1,743 registered corps members comprised 753 males and 990 females. He commended the state government for improvements to camp facilities and security but appealed for additional support, including a functional ambulance, rehabilitation of camp infrastructure, and an upgraded camp clinic.

Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development and Chairman of the NYSC State Governing Board, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, also spoke at the event, reaffirming the government's commitment to excellence and community development.