The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp in Yikpata, Kwara State, buzzed with activity as 2,300 Batch ‘C’ Stream II corps members, comprising 1,200 females and 1,100 males, commenced their service year. Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, represented by the Commissioner for Youth Development, Ndanusa Usman, warmly welcomed the corps members and emphasized the importance of active participation in the diverse camp activities. He stressed that the orientation program, encompassing physical training, paramilitary drills, and citizenship and leadership training, was designed to equip them with essential skills for personal and national development. The Governor assured the corps members of the state government’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for their service year, encouraging them to embrace the opportunity for personal growth and meaningful contribution to the state.
The Governor’s message, conveyed through a statement by the Press Secretary of the Ministry of Youth Development, underscored the significance of the NYSC program in fostering national unity and youth development. He urged the corps members to uphold the ideals of the NYSC, demonstrating qualities of service, humility, and integrity throughout their service year. He reiterated the state government’s commitment to ensuring their safety and well-being, emphasizing the importance of their role as ambassadors of their families and institutions. The Governor’s words served as a reminder of the program’s potential for transformative impact on both the corps members and the communities they serve.
The formal induction of the corps members into the NYSC scheme was marked by the administration of the “NYSC Oath of Allegiance” by Justice Amina Ishiaq, representing the Chief Judge of Kwara State, Justice Abiodun Adebara. This solemn ceremony signified the corps members’ commitment to the ideals of the NYSC and their dedication to serving the nation. The Chairman of the Kwara State NYSC Governing Board, also the Commissioner for Youth Development, Ndanusa Usman, represented by Mrs. Adenike Ajide, Director of Personnel Finance and Supply, expressed gratitude to the Governor for his unwavering support to the NYSC scheme in the state. The Chairman emphasized the importance of selfless service and encouraged the corps members to contribute positively to the development of their host communities.
Ndanusa Usman further commended the dedication and hard work of the camp officials in ensuring the safety and well-being of the corps members. He acknowledged the crucial role played by the camp officials in creating a conducive environment for the orientation program and fostering a sense of camaraderie among the corps members. The State Coordinator for the NYSC, Mr. Onifade Joshua, echoed the Chairman’s sentiments, expressing appreciation for the Governor’s support and acknowledging the corps members’ enthusiasm for the service year. He outlined the various activities planned for their entertainment and education, emphasizing the importance of adherence to the program’s rules and regulations.
The presence of dignitaries, including the representative of the Director General of NYSC, Comrade Habeeb Haruna, the representative of the Commissioner of Police, CSP Jimoh Muhammed Tunde, and the representative of the Commandant of the Nigeria Security Civil Defense Corps, SC Babalola Sunday Stephen, highlighted the significance of the event and the collaborative effort in ensuring the success of the NYSC program. Their presence underscored the importance of interagency cooperation in fostering national unity and youth development.
The commencement of the service year for the 2,300 Batch ‘C’ Stream II corps members marks the beginning of a transformative journey, filled with opportunities for personal growth, community development, and national integration. The emphasis on active participation in camp activities, coupled with the state government’s commitment to their well-being, sets the stage for a rewarding and impactful service year. The corps members, equipped with the necessary skills and imbued with a sense of purpose, are poised to contribute meaningfully to the development of Kwara State and the nation as a whole. Their service year represents a significant step in their personal and professional development, fostering a sense of national unity and contributing to the overall progress of the country.
