We're committed to success of NYSC scheme

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The Oyo state government has said it will not relent in actualising the essence of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in the state.

This was disclosed by the Governor of Oyo state, Seyi Makinde during the swearing-in ceremony of the 2023 Batch B stream 1 Corps members at the NYSC permanent orientation camp, Iseyin.

Makinde, represented by the Deputy governor of the state, Barr. Bayo Lawal said that the state government is dedicated to building on already-established infrastructure and accomplishments.

He said, “The Oyo government is committed and dedicated to the success of the NYSC scheme. Our administration has put the necessary machinery to give the scheme and security agencies in the state the support they need to carry out their duties more efficiently.

“Financially, we stand as one of the highest paying states in Nigeria and remain committed to ensuring that Corps members in our dear state live comfortably.”

Furthermore, the governor congratulated the corps members on the successful completion of their academic programmes and mobilisation for the national service.

He urged them to avail themselves of the unique opportunity to participate actively in all the camp activities during the three-week orientation.

Makinde advised them to be security conscious at all times while assuring them of the opportunity to develop their entrepreneurial capacity through the scheme’s Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme.

“I’m glad to inform you that you are very fortunate to be posted to Oyo state. There is no gainsaying that Oyo state is one of the most stable, safe and prosperous states in Nigeria.

“This is evidenced by the warm and pleasant nature of her people basking in a very rich cultural heritage. Our people are very accommodating and you should not be afraid of integrating with your host communities.”

Makinde also commended the scheme for its role in the electioneering process, saying, ” I commend the scheme for its conduct in the conduct of fair and credible elections across the country.

“It was through the same elections, that our administration got a renewed mandate to continue the good work that we started during the first term.”

On her part, the permanent secretary, Ministry of Youths and Sports, Mrs Olubukola Oladipo admonished the Corps members to honour and respect the diverse nature of the country.

She said, “the NYSC scheme is a melting pot that house that houses youths from all tribes and ethnic groups in Nigeria. I enjoin you all to honour and respect the diverse nature of the country.

“During the course of the orientation course, uphold the notion that says, even if our tongues differ, we should always stand in brotherhood to build a formidable country.”

She, therefore, tasked the Corps members to “always uphold the lofty ideals of the founding fathers of the scheme through breaking barriers and getting acculturated to the norms, values and traditions of other ethnic groups, thereby, encouraging integration.”

The Oyo NYSC state coordinator, Mr Odoba Abel Oche, appreciated the state governor, Seyi Makinde’s efforts in making the scheme successful.

He said, ”I thank Mr Governor, Seyi Makinde for his wonderful support for the NYSC in Oyo state. The state has been rated high in the provision of Corps welfare.

“It is on record that payment of allowance of Corps members serving in the state government agencies are promptly paid. We also acknowledge the constant assistance and support that we receive towards the successful conduct of every orientation programme.”

He also applauded the efforts of the NYSC governing board for their support and contribution to the smooth running of the scheme.

Furthermore, the state coordinator enjoined the Corps members to “take the orientation course seriously, and participate in all camp activities. Use the leadership skills learnt during this time to contribute your quota to nation-building.”