Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, has urged the new corps members in the state to actively contribute to the development of their host communities.
He gave the urge during the closing ceremony of the 2024 Batch ‘B’ Stream Two orientation programme for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), held at the Iseyin Permanent Orientation Camp.
Governor Makinde congratulated the corps members on successfully completing their three-week induction, emphasising the importance of the skills and lessons learned during the programme.
He reminded them of their role as patriots, calling for unity and dedication to the founding principles of the NYSC, encapsulated in its motto: “Service and humility.”
Addressing the concerns of safety and welfare, Makinde assured the corps members that the state government is committed to ensuring their well-being throughout their service year.
He encouraged them to identify meaningful projects that could positively impact their communities, advocating for a proactive approach to community service.
The governor highlighted the significance of the motivational lectures and entrepreneurship programmes included in the orientation, urging the corps members to focus on job creation rather than job seeking as they move forward.
He expressed confidence in the hospitable nature of the people of Oyo State, assuring the corps members that they would find a welcoming environment.
Makinde called on them to remain diligent and law-abiding, avoiding negative behaviors such as truancy, cultism, and internet scams.
The governor commended the corps members for their discipline and thanked camp officials for their dedication throughout the orientation.
Earlier in his address, the state coordinator of the scheme, Mr. Odoba Abel Oche, emphasised the importance of preparation and responsibility as the corps members transition to their primary assignments.
Mr. Oche reflected on the rigorous training and lectures the corps members underwent, noting their readiness to embark on their service journeys.
He commended the cohort for their discipline, diligence, and law-abiding nature, while also recognizing their youthful exuberance.
The state’s coordinator stressed the role of employers and guardians in guiding these young individuals, urging them to mold the corps members into future leaders.
Highlighting the welfare of corps members, Mr. Oche appealed to employers to provide essential needs such as accommodation and transportation allowances.
He advocated for the establishment of corps lodges in all Local Government Councils to facilitate a smoother transition for the members as they settle into their new environments.
To the corps members, he encouraged a strong commitment to their duties in exchange for good welfare packages.
He urged them to respect the traditions of their host communities and to actively integrate with local residents. Additionally, he advised against unauthorized travel, emphasizing the potential dangers involved.
Mr. Oche called on Local Government Authorities to take advantage of the Community Development Programme by sponsoring projects initiated by corps members.
He expressed confidence that with financial support from local governments and communities, these projects would significantly benefit the host areas.
While expressing gratitude to various stakeholders for their support, particularly to Governor Seyi Makinde for his unwavering assistance to the NYSC Scheme, he acknowledged the contributions of the Hon. Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Miss Wasilat Adegoke, as well as the support from the Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba Sefiu Oyebola Olawale Adeyeri III, and the Iseyin community.
He expressed appreciation to all collaborating agencies and individuals who played a role in the successful execution of the orientation programme, marking the end of a significant chapter for the corps members as they prepare to serve their communities.
