The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) commenced its 2024 Batch ‘C’ Stream II orientation program in Jigawa State, marking the beginning of a transformative journey for 2,000 young graduates deployed to the state. The swearing-in ceremony, held at the Gen. Yakubu Gowon NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Dutse, signifies the corps members’ formal induction into the scheme, a pivotal program designed to foster national unity, integration, and youth development in Nigeria. This intake of corps members represents a fresh wave of human capital poised to contribute to the socio-economic advancement of Jigawa State and the nation at large.
Governor Umar Namadi, represented by the Commissioner for Basic Education, Dr. Lawan Yunusa, officially opened the orientation course, extending a warm welcome to the corps members and urging them to embrace the rich cultural heritage and hospitable environment of Jigawa State. He highlighted the state’s unique agricultural potential and its conducive atmosphere for a healthy lifestyle and entrepreneurship, assuring the corps members that Jigawa offers a fertile ground for personal and professional growth. The governor’s address underscored the crucial role of the NYSC in national development and encouraged the corps members to view themselves as agents of positive change and symbols of national integration.
The governor’s representative emphasized the significance of building bridges of friendship and understanding across religious, ethnic, and social divides. He called upon the corps members to actively promote peaceful coexistence and national unity, urging them to immerse themselves in the local culture and forge connections with the people of Jigawa State. This emphasis on intercultural exchange and community engagement underscores the NYSC’s commitment to fostering harmony and understanding among diverse groups within the nation. The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting the NYSC and creating an enabling environment for corps members to thrive and maximize their potential.
The NYSC Coordinator, Alhaji Jidda Dawut, outlined the four cardinal programs of the scheme, emphasizing their focus on self-reliance, capacity building, and preparing corps members for future leadership roles. These programs encompass various aspects of personal and professional development, equipping corps members with the skills and knowledge necessary to contribute meaningfully to their host communities and the nation as a whole. Dawut stressed the importance of adherence to camp rules, respect for constituted authority, and active participation in all orientation activities. He emphasized that the corps members’ cooperation and engagement are crucial for the success of the orientation program and their overall NYSC experience.
The three-week orientation course serves as a foundational period for the corps members, providing them with the necessary skills, knowledge, and mindset for their national service year. The curriculum includes various modules covering topics such as national consciousness, leadership development, community development, cultural awareness, and practical skills acquisition. This comprehensive training aims to equip the corps members with the tools they need to succeed in their respective placements and make a positive impact on their host communities. The orientation period also serves as a platform for fostering camaraderie and building a sense of community among the corps members.
The arrival of the 2024 Batch ‘C’ Stream II corps members in Jigawa State marks the beginning of a new chapter in their lives, offering them an opportunity to contribute to national development, experience a different culture, and build lasting relationships. The NYSC program continues to play a vital role in fostering national unity, promoting youth development, and empowering young graduates to become agents of positive change in Nigeria. The orientation course is a crucial stepping stone in this journey, providing the foundation for a fulfilling and impactful service year.
