The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has been described as a beacon of hope and also a reference point when it comes to productive channelling of youthful intelligence, energy and skills for national development.
This statement was made by the Governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, at the swearing-in ceremony for the 2018 Batch ‘B’ stream II joint orientation course for Oyo and Kwara states’ corps members deployed to the state.
Ajimobi who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of youth and sport who also doubles as the director of planning research and statistics, Mrs O.M Makinde, added that the orientation course is aimed towards inculcating discipline, hard work and integrity in the Nigerian graduates.
“The NYSC is a programme designed to equip the vibrant youth morally, physically, socially and psychologically to prepare the service vanguards to overcome the daunting challenges you might face in the course of your service year.”
He, however, advised the corps members to avail themselves of the opportunities provided by the scheme, saying: “have a positive and right attitude that will help you surpass your predecessors’ achievements.”
“To effectively achieve good results, I charge you to establish a healthy relationship among yourselves and live amicably with others under any given circumstance.”
He also added that the Oyo State Government will continue to ensure that conducive and secure environment is created for the corps members.
The NYSC Oyo State coordinator, Mrs Ifeoma Anidobi, disclosed that as at midnight of Wednesday, 2259 corps members were registered out of which 1601 belongs to Oyo state and 658 to Kwara state.
According to her, “Oyo State and especially the people of Iseyin are noted for their rich cultural heritage and as you will soon discover, the Yorubas are very friendly, hospitable and God-fearing people.”
“It is expected of you as good citizens of this great nation to contribute your quota to the unity, integration and advancement of Nigeria as a whole in the course of your service year to our fatherland.”
The NYSC Kwara state coordinator, Mrs Esther Kupolati, also advised the corps members deployed from the two states to learn everything they will be taught and to also make sure they fulfil the purpose for which they were brought there for.