The 2025 Batch A Stream II Cultural Carnival at the NYSC Ogun State Orientation Camp, Sagamu, turned into a moment of prestige and celebration as UNESCO honoured the State Coordinator, Mrs. Olayinka Diana Nasamu, with a distinguished leadership award in youth entrepreneurship and cultural promotion.
Presented by Prof Emeritus Peter Okebukola, OFR, Director of the UNESCO Institute for African Culture and International Understanding, the award recognizes Mrs. Nasamu’s remarkable dedication to empowering Nigerian youth through entrepreneurial initiatives and her unwavering commitment to promoting cultural diversity within the NYSC scheme.
Prof. Okebukola commended the Coordinator’s leadership style, stating that UNESCO had been monitoring her contributions to youth development in Ogun State and found her eminently deserving of the honour. He added that the award, which celebrates her transformative impact, would also be formally communicated to the NYSC Director General.
The award presentation formed a high point of the colourful cultural carnival, which saw Corps Members from ten platoons showcase Nigeria’s ethnic richness through traditional dances, attire, cuisine, and rites. Platoon 7 emerged overall winner with a powerful representation of the Hausa/Fulani culture, followed by Platoon 4’s Tiv presentation and Platoon 1’s portrayal of the Itsekiri people.
The event, a core part of the NYSC Orientation Programme, drew notable guests including captains of industry, service chiefs, and government dignitaries, all of whom joined the Corps Members in celebrating Nigeria’s cultural diversity.
The festival concluded with an after-party that offered Corps Members and guests a relaxed atmosphere to unwind and reflect on the shared spirit of unity and creativity that defined the day.
