On Monday, Brig Gen Y. D Ahmed, the Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), addressed the members of the 2024 Batch C, Stream 2 during their ongoing orientation course in Yikpata, Edu Local Government Area of Kwara State. His primary message focused on the importance of reflection and planning for the future during their service year. He emphasized that their time in the service should not be squandered on frivolities but rather utilized as an opportunity for self-discovery and future planning. Recognizing the significance of this period in their lives, he encouraged the corps members to consider the long-term impact of their decisions and actions on both personal and national levels.
Ahmed urged the corps members to embrace their youth and take the time to reflect on their lives. He noted that this is a crucial phase in their lives where they can assess their dreams and aspirations while also charting the course for their future. He portrayed the service year as an invaluable opportunity to make meaningful decisions that align with their goals and contribute positively to Nigeria. Through this lens, he reiterated the importance of maximizing their time in the NYSC program by planning for a better life and, by extension, improving the nation itself.
Emphasizing the potential that each of them holds, the DG encouraged the corps members to remain focused and utilize the NYSC platform effectively. He stated that the current NYSC scheme is designed to provide participants with opportunities to explore and develop their skills. By leveraging the resources available through the NYSC, corps members can harness their diverse talents and emerge from the service year as more equipped individuals ready to face future challenges. This approach reaffirms the purpose of the NYSC as not merely a requirement but a pivotal time for personal growth and national service.
To ensure their safety during the service year, Ahmed provided important reminders regarding travelling, particularly around the hazards associated with night journeys. He cautioned corps members against unnecessary travel, especially at night, highlighting the potential dangers they might face. By sharing these safety tips, he aimed to foster a culture of security consciousness among the corps members, ensuring they remain vigilant and prioritize their well-being throughout their service duration.
In addition to personal reflection and safety, the Director-General encouraged the corps members to take advantage of the NYSC Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) program. He urged them to acquire at least two new skills during their time in service, highlighting the collaboration between NYSC and various governmental and non-governmental organizations aimed at providing resources and support for budding entrepreneurs. This initiative is crucial for equipping corps members with skills that can translate into viable business ventures and enhance their employability.
As the orientation course progresses, Ahmed’s address serves as a reminder to corps members to maximize this unique opportunity for self-improvement and planning for the future. By reflecting on their life goals, embracing safety practices, and pursuing skill acquisition, they can emerge from the NYSC experience not only as more conscientious citizens but also as empowered individuals ready to contribute positively to their communities and the nation at large. The DG’s wise counsel encapsulates the essence of the NYSC’s mission, which is to engage and prepare the youth of Nigeria for the responsibilities that lie ahead.
