Loyalty to Nigeria non-negotiable, Makinde tells Corps members

The Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde has charged National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Corps members to remain loyal to Nigeria and embrace the ideals of unity, discipline, and patriotism.

Makinde stated this during the swearing-in ceremony of the 2024 Batch C, stream 2 Corps members deployed to the state at the permanent orientation camp, Ogbakuta, Iseyin on Friday.

Represented by the Oyo state commissioner of youths and sports, Wasilat Adegoke, Makinde admonished the Corps members to be loyal to the ideals of the nation and join in building Nigeria to become a formidable force.

He said, “As you have taken the oath of allegiance, this marks not just the beginning of your one-year mandatory national service journey but also the beginning of a lifetime service to your community, your state, and your country.

“By donning this uniform, you embrace the ideals of unity, discipline, and patriotism which symbolise the hope of a brighter future.

“I implore you to cultivate a healthy relationship among your colleagues during and after the orientation exercise. Remember, the task of nation-building is a collective effort.

“It is pertinent to remind you that loyalty to one’s nation is non-negotiable. It is a truism that our country is blessed with the best set of young minds, this is evidenced in the numerous record-breaking achievements in all spheres of life across the globe.

“I urge you all to channel your various knowledge, talents and God-given gifts to position our country positively among the committee of nations.”

The governor, therefore, implored the Corps members to embrace growth and productivity to become better individuals and citizens, emphasising the need to be more involved in the SAED training.

“You will get hands-on experiences that will help you grow and develop to be more productive and smart. Of utmost importance is the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) Programme which has been specifically developed to mitigate the high rate of unemployment confronting the teeming Nigerian graduates.

“Skill acquisition is the new trend through which your name would be deleted from the list of graduates traversing the nooks and crannies of the nation, seeking employment after the service year,” he said.

Similarly, Makinde enjoined the Corps members to integrate with members of their host communities by learning, appreciating and respecting the cultures and traditions of the people.

Earlier in his address, the Oyo state NYSC coordinator, Mr Odoba Abel lauded the Oyo state government for “unwavering support for the youth and commitment to their development.”

Furthermore, Odoba charged the Corps members to be responsible, committed and selfless in their service to the nation.

The state coordinator said, “I urge you to approach your service year with a sense of responsibility, commitment, and selflessness. The NYSC was established on the ideals of national integration, youth empowerment, and nation-building. These values are the foundation of the programme and will guide your journey over the next year.”

He also reiterated the essence of the SAED programme, saying, “The orientation programme is also an opportunity for personal and professional growth. The Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme will provide you with valuable skills for life after your service year.

“Take full advantage of the lectures, paramilitary drills, leadership training, inter-platoon competitions, and social activities that have been planned. These experiences are designed to equip you for a future of success and impact.”

The Chief Judge of Oyo State, Hon. Justice Iyabo Yerima administered the oath of allegiance to the 3,589 Corps members, comprising 1,339 boys and 2,250 girls.

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