National Telescope national telescope newspaper
By Deborah Odekola |
The Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has urged the newly deployed National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to immerse themselves in the cultural values and traditions of the communities where they are posted and contribute to the development of their nation.
He made this call during the official opening of the 2024 Batch C Stream 1 orientation for corps members assigned to the state on Friday.
A total of 2,073 corps members, including 753 males and 1,320 females, have been deployed to Oyo State, with an additional 880 corps members relocated from Lagos for the three-week orientation course at the NYSC camp.
Represented by the state Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Professor Abdulwaheed Salihu, Governor Makinde emphasised the significant role the NYSC has played in promoting national unity, integration, and socio-economic development over the past 51 years.
He commended the scheme as one of the most successful and enduring national programmes, fostering manpower mobility and national cohesion.
Governor Makinde encouraged the corps members to take full advantage of the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) Programme offered by the NYSC.
He described the programme as a vital tool to combat the high unemployment rate among Nigerian graduates and urged them to focus on acquiring skills that will make them self-reliant after their service year.
“This is not just the beginning of your one-year mandatory national service, but the start of a lifetime of service to your community, state, and country. By wearing this uniform, you embrace the ideals of unity, discipline, and patriotism—values that symbolize hope for a brighter future,” Governor Makinde said.
He also urged the corps members to forge strong bonds with their colleagues and build healthy relationships within their host communities.
He reminded them of the importance of respecting the cultural heritage of the Yoruba people, who are deeply proud of their traditions.
The Governor further emphasised the importance of loyalty to the nation and commended Nigerian youth for their record-breaking achievements in various fields, both locally and internationally.
He called on the corps members to embody these ideals and contribute positively to national development.
In her address, Oyo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports and the state’s NYSC Governing Board, Hon. Wasilat Adegoke, encouraged the corps members to be well-behaved and take full advantage of the opportunities provided by the NYSC scheme.
Represented by Mrs. Kudirat Mustapha, the Director in the Ministry, Hon. Adegoke assured the corps members of a warm reception and support throughout their service year in the state.
She stressed the importance of discipline and active participation in the SAED programme as a means to combat unemployment.
The NYSC Oyo State Coordinator, Chief Odoba Oche, also addressed the corps members, reminding them that camp life is structured and rigorous, with both physical and intellectual activities designed to prepare them for national service.
He encouraged them to participate fully in all camp activities and adhere to camp rules and regulations.
“You are in safe hands with dedicated and compassionate camp officials, and this orientation course is an opportunity for your personal and professional growth. It will enhance your skills, help you develop your leadership abilities, and build networks that will serve you well in the future,” Chief Oche stated.
The oath of allegiance was administered to the corps members by Justice Iyabo Yerima, the Chief Judge of Oyo State, represented by Justice A.L Akintola.
The event marked the beginning of a new chapter for the corps members as they embark on their national service, contributing to the progress and unity of Nigeria.
