Governor of Oyo state, Seyi Makinde has urged Corps members under the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to develop and cultivate a positive and creative mindset to create the future they want.
The governor said this at the closing ceremony of the 2023 Batch B stream 2 Corps members deployed to the state at the NYSC permanent orientation camp, Iseyin.
He assured the Corps members of his administration’s focus on adequate security and welfare in order to make their stay in the state worthwhile.
“I assure you that my administration and the good People of Oyo State would guarantee you excellent hospitality while also ensuring that your security and welfare are not compromised.
“Oyo State is relatively peaceful and you will enjoy the warmness of the people.”
Makinde, represented by the deputy governor of the state, Adebayo Lawal encouraged the Corps members to make good use of their youthfulness in becoming successful in their chosen fields.
“I admonish you to make positive use of your youthful age and strength. Be vibrant and positive-minded, seek advice when needed and do not be a lone man on an Island.
“You are the hope of the future of this nation, so, pursue integrity, hard work, humility, honesty and creativity.”
Furthermore, Makinde stated that the Corps members should endeavour to overcome their setbacks and challenges, saying “there may be setbacks along the line but do not let them define you, learn from them and grow.
“Your tenacity will definitely see you through any challenge. Restrict yourself to the company of people with idealism, courage and creativity. It is so disheartening to see a number of educated youth getting involved in crime.
“They are being blinded by the vanities of this world. Be confident and believe in yourself. If you are not able to do great things, then do small things in a great way. Trust the beauty of your dream to create the future you want to live.”
He, therefore, advised them to be good ambassadors of their families and the scheme, ensuring they refrain from any act capable of “tarnishing the good image of your predecessors have built over the years.
“I want to assure you that my administration and the good People of Oyo State would guarantee you excellent hospitality while also ensuring that your security and welfare are not compromised. Oyo State is relatively peaceful and you will enjoy the warmness of the people.”
Earlier, the Oyo NYSC state coordinator, Mr Odoba Abel Oche, appreciated the state government’s efforts in supporting the scheme, and also the NYSC officials for sacrificing their time and efforts in making the orientation course successful.
He said, “I want to especially thank the State Government for the kind assistance we received for this orientation programme.
“We cannot forget to thank all our sponsors and others who assisted us in various ways especially those that have contributed to the ongoing building project at the camp.
“I appreciate the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth and Sports, Mrs Olubukola Oladipo and other Principal Staff of the Ministry for their relentless efforts at ensuring that we have a hitch-free orientation programme
“I equally want to appreciate the camp officials for their service. We have been here for the past three weeks and I know it has not been easy staying awake for most hours of each day. I pray that God will reward you.”
Odoba, therefore, admonished Corps members to “be hard working and be above board. Be law-abiding and accept challenges that would give you an edge in life.”
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