Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta has urged Corp members to embrace the ideals of patriotism, discipline, selflessness and service, both within the camp and during their primary assignments.
Oborevwori gave the charge at the Swearing-in/Opening ceremony of Batch B Stream I Corps members at the National Youth Service Corp (NYSC) orientation camp Issele-Uku on Friday.
The Governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Youth Development, Trakiriowei ThankGod said these virtues remain the bedrock of nation-building and your role as change agents cannot be overstated.
“Approach your assignments with diligence, empathy and a sense of purpose, seize the opportunity to leave a positive legacy in your host communities.
“I particularly urge you to participate in the Community Development Service (CDS) groups. Through these platforms, you can help raise awareness on critical social issues, promote good values and contribute to nation-building.
“Stand up against cultism, drug abuse, thuggery, cybercrime, prostitution, militia, kidnapping, terrorism and the get-rich-quick mentality. Live responsibly and show good example.
“Let your conduct throughout your service year reflect the highest standards of integrity, diligence and excellence as you begin this chapter,” he said.
The Governor said that for over five decades, the NYSC has remained a vital instrument in fostering national cohesion and contributing to the socio-economic advancement of our country.
“It has continued to attract the enthusiasm of Nigerian youths despite prevailing challenges, including insecurity and economic constraints is a testament to its enduring relevance and value.
“Your deployment to Delta State is not by accident. I urge you to embrace this opportunity with a positive spirit and an open mind.
“Consider yourselves, for this period, Deltans, partners in our ongoing efforts to build a safer, stronger and more prosperous State.
“The orientation course you are currently undergoing may be physically and mentally demanding but the discipline, skills and values it instils will serve you well throughout your life,” the governor said.
Oborevwori said that his administration acknowledge some of the challenges affecting the Scheme, such as corps members rejection and infrastructural gaps in orientation camps.
“Let me assure you that these issues are being addressed with seriousness and urgency. As a government, we deeply value the NYSC and we remain committed to your empowerment,” he said.
The governor urged the corp members to maximise the benefits of the NYSC Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme and other initiatives such as NYSC ventures.
“These platforms are designed to equip you with practical skills and entrepreneurial know-how to ensure post-service self reliance and help reduce youth unemployment,” he said.
Mr John Kwange, State Coordinator for NYSC in his welcome address urged corps members to see their deployment as a golden opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the developmental programmes of the state.
“It is important to inform you that Delta State is known and called “The Big Heart” as a result of the state’s warmth and welcoming nature, symbolising the generosity and kindness of its people.
“Apart from its significant location as an oil-producing state, Delta is rich in cultural heritage. Therefore, Delta is home away from home for you all,” he said.
Kwange commended the State Governor for his continued support to the NYSC scheme.
“The ongoing internal road construction and the reticulation of water to various areas of the camp, are clear testament of the government’s effort at uplifting the standard of the orientation camp,” he said.
The state coordinator appealed to the state Government to help in the reconstruction of the perimeter fence of the camp.
“I am, however, constrained to inform Your Excellency that the unfortunate incident of the vandalisation of the entire electrical installations in the camp few days before commencement of this orientation course, has caused a serious setback.
“The breakdown of parts of the fence gave room to the unwholesome activities of some enemies of the Scheme and the state at large,” Kwange said.
Kwange said that a total of 1,374 prospective corps members; comprising 613 males and 761 females, have been registered and fully kitted.