The Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke has described the members of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC as a source of immense potential to Nigeria and the country’s most valuable resource.
He said it was the responsibility of the Nigerian State to provide the scheme with the tools necessary for it to succeed in the form of the NYSC orientation course.
Governor Adeleke gave this affirmation during the swearing-in and official opening ceremony of the 2023 Batch C Stream 1 orientation course for corps members deployed to the state at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Ede on Tuesday.
Governor Adeleke urged the corps members to make the most of this opportunity to ask questions, explore new horizons and use the programme as a stepping stone towards their dreams and aspirations.
“Let the programme be a stepping stone towards your dreams and aspirations. Remember, success is not just about personal achievement but also about giving back to your communities and making a positive impact.
“As you engage in these activities and connect with your peers, I hope you build lasting friendships and networks that will support you throughout your journey.”
While noting that the world is changing rapidly and the youth were at the forefront of that change, Adeleke charged the corps members to be ready and fully prepared for the change.
“I urge you to leverage on the NYSC Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development programme for self-development and empowerment. Take the programme seriously.
“I urge you to dream big, work hard, and be the change you wish to see in the world. With the right knowledge and a commitment to excellence, you can achieve anything. This Orientation programme is just the beginning of your incredible journey.”
The governor also advised the corps members to obey all rules and regulations.
“Be a law-abiding citizen and always embrace peaceful coexistence, wholesome friendship, honesty and virtues. Do not indulge yourselves in frivolities and exuberances associated with modern youths but strive to stand out and be different to secure your place in the future.”
Earlier in his welcome address, the Osun NYSC State Coordinator, Agbor Ndoma Obim charged the newly sworn-in corps members to rise to the challenges of their service year and embrace the opportunities.
Agbor also tasked the corps members to make a positive impact during the national service year.
“I urge you to work towards distinguishing yourselves during the service year as the Scheme has a system of rewarding hard work and diligence. There are several awards reserved for outstanding performance such as the State Coordinator’s commendation, Chairman’s Award, State Honours Award and the Presidential Award. Therefore, ensure you start distinguishing yourselves right from the Orientation Programme for these Awards.
“I urge you all to embrace the Orientation Course with an open heart and a willingness to learn. It is here that you will acquire the skills, knowledge, and values that will guide you throughout your service year. Take advantage of the various programmes and activities that have been carefully designed to prepare you for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Remember, you are not just participants in a programme, but you are also ambassadors of unity and progress
The Osun NYSC boss also charged the corps members to commit themselves to serving Nigeria with all their strength and to serve their communities with dedication and selflessness.
While charging them to be good ambassadors of their family and the NYSC scheme, Agbor urged them not to use their social media handles to peddle rumours and unverified information.
A total number of 2300 corps members were deployed to Osun State which comprised 580 males, 770 females and 950 dislodged corps members from Lagos State.
