Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has given nine former National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members from Abia automatic employment in the state civil service.
The surprise announcement was made on Tuesday at Government House, Umuahia, during a reception for the awardees.
The beneficiaries, all of Abia origin, recently won the highly coveted NYSC Presidential Honour Awards in their respective states of service.
Their recognition placed them among the best of the 2024 service year.
Governor Otti described the gesture as a reward for excellence and a motivation for others still serving.
He emphasized that the state must continue to recognize young people who distinguish themselves through hard work.
“On behalf of the state government, you are going to leave here with a token. But beyond the token, I hereby temporarily lift the embargo on employment to employ the nine of you, except if any of you is not interested,” he declared.
The governor directed the State Head of Service to issue appointment letters immediately, stressing that the honorees had already proven themselves worthy of the recognition.
The awardees are: Nwogu Chinonso, Anyanwu Promise, Ezieme Uba, Emmanuel Ezinne, Abia Grace, Nwafike Chiemela, Ugwa Mark, Eke Miracle, and James Chukwuebuka.
This unexpected opportunity not only secures their career paths but also highlights Governor Otti’s commitment to supporting excellence in youths.
Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, Mr. Nwogu Chinonso, from Obingwa Local Government Area, expressed deep appreciation.
Chinonso, who served in Zamfara State, said:
“He [Governor Otti] is a true leader and the Joshua of our time. We promise to serve Abia State with dedication and commitment.”
His words reflected the joy and sense of responsibility shared among the recipients.
This move by Governor Otti has been hailed as both bold and inspirational.
It comes at a time when many young Nigerians face unemployment after service.
By offering automatic jobs, the governor not only lifted the employment embargo but also sent a message that excellence and hard work will not go unnoticed in Abia.
Furthermore, it aligns with the government’s vision of building a productive workforce while encouraging others still in service to give their best.
Governor Otti encouraged the honorees to remain role models in their various fields, assuring them of continuous state support.
“The state government will keep supporting excellence and hard work,” he reaffirmed.
With this gesture, Abia joins the list of states turning recognition into opportunity for young graduates.
The action sets a precedent that may inspire other leaders to reward outstanding corps members in similar ways.
