•Assures scheme of support, welfare of Corps members
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Oyo State, on Friday, swore in 2,953 Corps members deployed to the state, and those dislodged from Lagos State, for their mandatory one-year national service.
Governor of Oyo state, Seyi Makinde declared the Batch C, stream ‘I’ orientation course open at the NYSC Oyo Permanent Orientation Camp, Iseyin.
Makinde represented by the Commissioner of Education, Science and Technology, Prof Salihu Adelabu congratulated the Corps members for the successful completion of their academic pursuits which qualified them for national service.
The governor said, “I congratulate you on the successful completion of your academic programs which qualified you for mobilisation into the National Youth Service Corps.
“This clarion call is for you to serve your fatherland with a consistent display of hard work, discipline and the quest to contribute your quota to national development and Oyo State in particular.”
He urged them to reflect on the weight of the responsibilities that lie on Corps members, adding that their service transcends geographical boundaries.
Makinde added that the clarion call is to serve their fatherland with a consistent display of hard work, discipline and quest to contribute their quota to national development and Oyo State in particular.
“You will be learning about different initiatives which is the first step to prepare you for the task and challenges of the Service year.
He, therefore, urged the Corps members to embrace the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme as it is an avenue for growth and development.
“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.
Furthermore, Makinde reaffirmed Oyo state government support for the NYSC scheme and the welfare of Corps members in the state.
He stated, “We remain resolute in maintaining our pace-setting role in terms of Corps welfare. We are determined to continue the huge investment in the youths.
“We will do everything within our capacity to ensure a conducive and secure environment during and after the orientation exercise. Oyo State is peaceful, feel free to relate with our people and be rest assured that you are in the safe hands of Government and the good people of Oyo State.”
Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Wasilat Adegoke, who was represented by Alhaja Kudirat Mustapha said that “the NYSC through its purposeful programmes has brought so many good opportunities for young Nigerian graduates.”
She urged the Corps members to avail themselves of these opportunities starting from the three-week orientation course, saying “avail yourselves of these opportunities starting from the three-week Orientation course, endeavour to make the best use of it to enhance your personal status for the overall development of the nation.”
On his part, the State Coordinator, NYSC Oyo State, Odoba Abel Oche appreciated the support of the Makinde-led government and also Oyo residents.
Odoba implored the Corps members to commit to the scheme’s effort of nation-building and youth empowerment.
The state coordinator said, “You must be prepared to commit yourselves to service, not only to your country but also to the communities you will be posted to serve for the next one year.
“The National Youth Service Corps was founded on the ideals of nation-building, youth empowerment, and national integration. These values are embedded in everything we do, and now, they will become part of your story. You are not just young men and women wearing a uniform; you are ambassadors of change, symbols of hope, and drivers of progress for Nigeria.”
The Chief Judge of Oyo State, Hon. Justice Iyabo Yerima, represented by Justice A.L Akintola administered the oath of allegiance on the Corps members.
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