Governor of Oyo state, Seyi Makinde has enjoined Corps members posted to the state to make the motto of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) which is ‘Service and humility’, their guiding principle.
Makinde made this known during the closing ceremony of the 2024 Batch B Stream One Corps members at the NYSC Oyo Permanent Orientation Camp, Iseyin.
He said, “This is quite an interesting moment for you to look back at all the activities that you have been engaged in and focus on the lessons and the skills acquired and how to apply them for the improvement of the society during service year and beyond.
“I have no doubt in my mind that the various trainings you have passed through would be of great value to you in your life’s journey. May I equally remind you that as patriots in service, we must all join hands to build a stronger, more united, peaceful and democratic nation.
“Therefore it is imperative that you do not isolate yourself from the overall objectives of the founding fathers of the NYSC Scheme. Let the motto of NYSC which is “Service and humility” be your guiding principle.”
Represented by the commissioner of youth and sports, Wasilat Adegoke, Makinde, assured the Corps members of his commitment to ensure their safety and welfare.
“I want to assure you that the government will not relent in its efforts at addressing your welfare needs and ensuring your safety wherever you are posted. I urge you to pay special attention to the development of your host communities by identifying viable projects that will positively impact the lives of our people.”
He, therefore, urged the Corps members to embrace self-employment by getting the required skills from the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme.
“I enjoin you to ponder seriously on this in the remaining eleven months of your service. It is my expectation that at the end of your service year, you will tend towards job creation rather than job seeking,” the governor stated.
Furthermore, Makinde encouraged the Corps members to be diligent, dedicated and law-abiding in the discharge of their duties.
He said, “Shun truancy and other forms of anti-social behaviours such as cultism, drug abuse, internet scams and the like rather you should engage yourself in productive activities.”
Earlier in his address, the state coordinator, Mr Odoba Abel Oche, appreciated the efforts of the Oyo state government to cater for the welfare and security of Corps members.
Odoba also urged the Corps members to endeavour to play important roles in nation-building.
“Having gone through these life moulding activities, I have no doubt in my mind that they are now fully prepared to appreciate the important role they are expected to play in nation-building. It is particularly informative to note that a major aspect of the orientation course has to do with value re-orientation among the youth and the need to face the reality of the national situation in respect to post-service unemployment.
“With the introduction of the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development programme, the corps members have been able to learn different skills and redirect their mindset from white-collar jobs,” he said.
He, therefore, encouraged them to “strive to give your best in the national interest. Be law-abiding and accept challenges that will give you an edge in life.
“You should add value to the certificate you have acquired by embarking on self-development programmes to be pursued after your official hours or weekends.”
ALSO READ THESE TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
