The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Zamfara State Council has pledged its continued support to the activities of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, towards the actualisation of its mandate.
The Chairman of the Council, Ibrahim Musa Maizare, gave the assurance when he received a delegation of the NYSC Editorial and Publicity CDS group on a courtesy visit to Gusau.
The State NUJ boss lauded the invaluable contributions of the scheme to the unity and integration of the nation, stressing that the visit was a historic one as it is the first time the NYSC team has officially identified with the union.
Maizare informed the visitors that the primary goal of the media is to inform, educate, and entertain the public and expressed the willingness of the body to work with groups and organisations interested in the development of the state.
He advised the corps members that as young journalists, they should consider themselves as part of the union and see the NUJ secretariat as their home.
Also speaking, the Zonal Secretary, Abdulrazak Bello Kaura described his NYSC experience as a memorable one, noting that anyone who truly undertook the one-year mandatory service will want to do it again.
In his words, “I served in Bayelsa State. When I was going there, my people were afraid. Honestly, I enjoyed myself in Bayelsa because the stories I heard before going there were quite different. The place was peaceful and the people received me warmly. The NYSC helps us to see ourselves as brothers and sisters”, he stated”
The zone officer urged the corps members to be good ambassadors of the state, respect the norms and traditions of the people as well and ensure that they make a lasting impact on their host communities.
Earlier, the leader of the delegation, Akonte Samuel, said the visit was part of the renewed drive by the NYSC to strengthen ties with media executives and stakeholders in the state.
He outlined the contributions of the scheme to the unity, peace and stability of the nation, noting that the NUJ, as the umbrella body of all journalists in the state, is a critical stakeholder in realizing the core objectives of the NYSC.
Samuel also disclosed that arrangements have been concluded to float a weekly radio programme to enhance the publicity of NYSC activities in the state.
