Gov. Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State on Monday said his administration was committed to ensuring adequate welfare and security of members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) deployed to the state.
Ajimobi, represented by his deputy, Chief Moses Adeyemo, said this at the swearing-in ceremony of the 2018 batch “A” corps members deployed to the state, at the NYSC Orientation Camp, Iseyin.
He assured the corps members of the warm reception awaiting them in their places of primary assignments.
“I assure you that you will enjoy the warmth and hospitality of the entire people of the state throughout the period of your one-year national service,” he said.
The governor noted that NYSC remained the unifying chord that held the country together.
He said that the scheme provided youths, who prior to its establishment, were strangers to the diverse culture of other parts of Nigeria.
Ajimobi remarked that the orientation programme was designed to inculcate discipline in youths and instill in them a tradition of hard work, integrity and patriotism to Nigeria wherever they were posted.
““To curb the alarming rate of unemployment, you are enjoined to acquire more knowledge through personal development skill acquisition and entrepreneurship development training during the period of orientation course,” he said.
Earlier, the state NYSC’s Coordinator, Mrs Ifeoma Anidobi, said 2,412 corps members were registered, comprising 1143 males and 1269 females.
Anidobi urged the corps members to contribute their quota to the unity, integration and advancement of Oyo state in particular and Nigeria at large.
She advised them to make optimal use of the opportunity provided by NYSC Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development programme.
The coordinator remarked that the posting policy of corps members to places of primary assignment was tailored towards meeting the felt needs of the state, particularly in agriculture, education, health and rural infrastructure.
“Several activities have been lined up to make the course an exciting one; so take every camp activity seriously, from early morning meditation to lectures, drills and social events.
“You will also have opportunity to showcase your talents during the inter-platoon dance, drama, sporting and skills competitions,” she said.
Anidobi, however, appreciated the Oyo state government and the people of the state for their unflinching support to the NYSC scheme always.
The 2,412 corps members were sworn in by Justice Eni Esan, who represented the Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Muktar Abimbola