The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Anambra State has welcomed a new State Coordinator, Mrs. Pauline Ojisua, who has officially taken over from Mrs. Blessing Ekene Iruma as the 15th person to hold the position.
During a formal handover ceremony held on Wednesday at the NYSC State Secretariat in Awka, outgoing Coordinator Iruma emphasized the importance of maintaining the standard of excellence established during her tenure.
She appealed to the management staff to support the new leadership, saying, “I urge you to extend the same high level of cooperation you gave me to the new Coordinator.”
In her address, Mrs. Ojisua expressed gratitude for the warm reception and shared her vision for the future. She assured attendees that her administration would prioritize the welfare of both Corps members and staff, and pledged to run an inclusive and transparent administration.
“I will operate an open-door policy to foster inclusivity and transparency,” she stated.
The event, attended by NYSC management staff and other stakeholders, featured the symbolic handover of documents, signifying a smooth transition of leadership.
As part of her familiarization visits, the new NYSC boss has paid courtesy calls to key figures, including the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth Development, Engr. Martin Agblili. Ojisua said the visit was aimed at strengthening ties with the Anambra State Government and other critical partners.
Recognizing the importance of community collaboration in NYSC operations, Ojisua also met with traditional rulers and community leaders such as Igwe Dr. Joel Maduadichie Egwuonwu (Eze-Udo II) of Nibo and the Onowu of Umuawulu. Her tour included visits to Prof. Emma Ezenwaji and President General Barr. Chris Ekweozor—leaders of communities that host the NYSC Orientation Camp.
In addition, she paid a courtesy visit to the palace of the Ezeukwu of Mbaukwu, Igwe Dr. Patrick Nwokike Anugwu, further reinforcing the NYSC’s relationship with one of its host communities.
“These engagements underscore my commitment to fostering strong ties with traditional institutions and stakeholders critical to NYSC operations in the State,” Ojisua affirmed.
She also expressed hope that her leadership would usher in innovative initiatives aimed at improving the experience of Corps members and the welfare of staff in Anambra State.
“I urge everyone to look forward to a period of continued progress and strengthened community relations under my leadership,” she concluded.