The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp in Umuawulu/Mbaukwu, Anambra State, recently buzzed with activity and excitement as Brigadier General O.O Nafiu, the Director General of the NYSC, paid an official visit to the newly inducted corps members. The visit, imbued with a spirit of camaraderie and encouragement, served as a powerful reminder of the vital role the NYSC plays in fostering national unity and development. The 1,186 corps members, comprising 679 males and 507 females, were commended for their discipline and enthusiasm as they embarked on this pivotal year of service.
General Nafiu’s interaction with the corps members went beyond mere formality. He engaged them in a meaningful dialogue, emphasizing the transformative potential of their service year. He urged them to view it not just as a mandatory obligation, but as a unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s progress. This call to action resonated deeply with the corps members, instilling in them a sense of purpose and responsibility as they prepared to integrate into their respective communities. The DG stressed the importance of active participation in all camp activities, particularly the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development program, empowering them to become self-reliant and contribute to the nation’s economic growth.
The orientation phase, General Nafiu emphasized, is crucial in shaping the mindset and values of the corps members. It is during this period that the foundations of discipline, unity, and team spirit are laid, preparing them for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The NYSC anthem, he reminded them, is not just a song, but a daily guide, a constant reminder of their commitment to selfless service and national unity. He urged them to imbibe the values enshrined in the anthem, carrying them throughout their service year and beyond.
Beyond the formal address, General Nafiu’s visit was marked by personal touches that further strengthened the bond with the corps members. He joined in celebrating birthdays with several corps members, cutting a cake and sharing a spontaneous dance to the tune of “Lonely at the Top” played by the camp’s observation squad. This light-hearted interaction fostered a sense of connection and demonstrated the DG’s genuine interest in the well-being of the corps members. His generous donation of two cows to the camp further solidified the gesture of goodwill, eliciting cheers and appreciation from the grateful recipients.
The Anambra State Coordinator, Mrs. Pauline Ojisua, in her welcome address, praised the professionalism and orderliness displayed by the corps members. She described the DG’s visit as both an honor and a morale booster for the state. Her words underscored the significance of the occasion and the positive impact it had on the entire camp community. The vibrant cultural display by Platoon 5, showcasing the rich traditions of Edo State, added a festive touch to the proceedings, further enriching the experience for everyone present.
General Nafiu’s visit to the NYSC orientation camp in Anambra State was more than just an official engagement. It was a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of the NYSC program and its role in shaping the future leaders of Nigeria. His words of encouragement, coupled with his genuine interactions and gestures of goodwill, left a lasting impression on the corps members, inspiring them to embrace their service year with renewed commitment and patriotism. The visit served as a testament to the NYSC’s enduring legacy of fostering national unity, promoting personal growth, and empowering young graduates to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s progress. As the corps members dispersed to their various places of primary assignment, they carried with them not only the practical advice and guidance imparted by the DG but also the inspiration to be agents of positive change in their communities.
