“Our Culture Is Our Pride and Identity” - SC Bayelsa Celebrates Cultural Diversity at NYSC Camp

The vibrant and diverse cultural heritage of Nigeria was prominently showcased today at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Bayelsa State during a lively cultural carnival. The event highlighted the richness of Nigerian cultures and emphasized the importance of cultural preservation.

In her opening remarks, Mrs. Okpalifo Obiageli Charity, the State Coordinator for NYSC Bayelsa, urged corps members to cherish and preserve their cultural heritage. "Our culture is our pride and identity," she declared. Mrs. Charity explained that exposure to various cultures through the carnival fosters cultural literacy and encourages the embrace of diverse cultural practices, transcending tribal lines.

She highlighted that neglecting cultural heritage could hinder national development and emphasized Nigeria’s unparalleled cultural diversity, which contributes to unity in diversity and tourism. The NYSC’s initiative to provide a platform for youths to understand and appreciate the cultural values of others through such events was praised by Mrs. Charity.

The cultural carnival featured a range of traditional elements including food, dances, songs, religious practices, and attire from different ethnic groups. Each cultural component presented by the corps members was rich with lessons on national unity, peace, development, and integration. Mrs. Charity stressed the importance of avoiding cultural superiority, stigmatization, intolerance, and biases as the corps members prepare to become future leaders.

She expressed joy in witnessing corps members from various cultural backgrounds actively participating in and celebrating each other’s traditions. "It is heartening to see corps members wearing, dancing, and singing songs from different cultures, and competing to ensure their platoon wins," she noted, calling it a positive sign for Nigeria’s future.

The carnival concluded with an enthusiastic competition among the platoons. The winners were announced as follows:

• 1st Position: Platoon 4
• 2nd Position: Platoon 3
• 3rd Position: Platoon 1

The corps members expressed their delight at learning firsthand about other cultures, with the event serving as both an educational experience and a celebration of Nigeria’s rich cultural tapestry.