Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has reiterated the unwavering support of his administration for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programmes in the state.
The governor said this on Friday in Iseyin during the opening of the 2024 Batch B Stream II orientation camp for corps members deployed to the state.
Makinde, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youths and Sports, Mrs Olubukola Oladipo, promised his administration’s continual support with the provision of a conducive environment for the scheme’s operations.
“This administration is youth-friendly, and this has continually been demonstrated with the appointment of a young and vibrant personality as the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, who also serves as the Chairman, NYSC State Governing Board.
“We have equally set up some development programmes where the youths in their different fields can utilise their knowledge and skills, which will be beneficial to the government.
“Being part of the state development programmes will automatically add value to the academic certificates acquired by corps members.
“I want to admonish you to see your call to service as a call to sacrifice, dedication, perseverance, and humility.
“Seize this opportunity to make new friends, discover other people’s strength and tap from their experience,” he said.
NYSC Coordinator in the state, Mr Abel Odoba, enjoined the corps members to take the orientation course seriously by participating in all camp activities.
According to him, the three-week orientation programme is packaged with various activities designed to ensure the accomplishment of the objectives of the NYSC scheme, which include citizenship and leadership grooming.
Odoba urged the corps members to take hold of the unique opportunity of the national service to learn about their hosts’ culture and ways of life.
“You are to also, during this service year, contribute your quota to the unity, integration and advancement of Oyo State and Nigeria in general,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the event featured the administration of Oaths of Allegiance on the corps members by the Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Iyabo Yerima. (NAN)