Governor of Oyo state, Seyi Makinde has assured Corps members posted to the state of his commitment to address their needs.
Makinde made this known during the closing ceremony of the 2024 Batch C Stream One Corps members at the NYSC Oyo Permanent Orientation Camp, Iseyin.
The Governor, represented by the Director, Youths Development, Ministry of Youths and Sports, Kudirat Mustapha also promised to ensure the safety of Corps members in the state.
He said, “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.”
Makinde, therefore, urged the Corps members to focus on the lessons and skills acquired during their three-week orientation exercise and apply them in their host communities.
“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.”
Furthermore, he equally implored the Corps members to live by the ‘Service and humility’ motto of the scheme, saying, “Let the motto of NYSC which is ‘Service and humility’ be your guiding principle.”
On the importance of skills acquisition, the governor said, “I am aware that several motivational lectures were organised for you and that the skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development programme was in the front burner.
‘All these are geared towards preparing you for post-service self-employment. There are equally hundreds of areas you can apply combinations of energy, education, skills and zeal to make a huge success story in the not too distant future.”
Earlier, the Oyo state NYSC coordinator, Odoba Abel Oche reiterated the commitment of the state government and urged employers to provide the basic needs of the Corps members.
“The welfare of Corps members is of the utmost priority to us. We are therefore appealing that employers provide them with basic needs such as accommodation and transportation or allowance in lieu. I equally want us to see them as our own children and treat them as such,” Odoba stated.
He, therefore, urged the Corps members saying, “Selfless service, patriotism, integrity, commitment, efficiency and teamwork have been your guiding principles for the past couple of days on this camp. I want to charge you not to rest on your oars but to continue to break boundaries and barriers with these core values.
“Your success during this service year depends greatly on your attitude. It is expected of you to conduct yourselves in a worthy manner wherever you are posted to serve.
“It is important for you to strive and be committed to your duties in return for a good welfare package, remain law abiding and accept challenges that would give you an edge in life.”
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