Governors across the country yesterday urged the current set of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to renew their faith in their country and remain patriotic.
They promised to ensure the security and welfare of the corps members in the course of the service to their fatherland.
The governors spoke during the closing ceremony of this year’s Batch B, Stream II orientation course of the scheme in their state capitals.
In Kaduna State, Governor Uba Sani assured the corps members that his administration would provide a safe environment for them to serve and thrive.
He said: “The Kaduna State government remains committed to providing the necessary support to ensure that your service year is productive and rewarding. We understand the challenges you may face, and I assure you that we are working tirelessly to create an environment where you can thrive and make a positive impact.”
Oyo State Governor ‘Seyi Makinde urged the youth to face the future with confidence, despite the challenges assailing the country.
He said: “Thirty four years ago, I would not have thought I would become a governor in Nigeria. So, we have future governors and presidents here.
“I can only point out just two things: my own daughter is among you today. This means some of us as your leaders are also human. We also go through what you go through and we also go through what your parents go through.”
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu advised corps members to contribute meaningfully to the social-economic development of the state and the country.
The governor spoke at the closing ceremony of the orientation course at the NYSC Orientation Camp at Iyana-Ipaja.
He said: “The training you received from the orientation course should have a significant impact in your lives during and after national service.
“Wherever you are posted, use it as an opportunity to contribute to societal development, keep in mind where you come from and be dedicated to your service to the nation.”
In Delta State, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori urged government agencies and other employers of corps members not to reject them but provide an enabling environment for them to work peacefully.
Oborevwori spoke during the closing ceremony at the NYSC Orientation Camp at Issele-Uku.
He said: “As you go into these communities, decide to be worthy ambassadors of the NYSC and be determined to write your names in gold in the hearts of the people.
“Be role models and good mentors to our children and youths in various communities.”
Niger State Governor Umaru Bago reassured corps members of tight security and welfare during their one-year mandatory national service.
The governor spoke during the closing ceremony of this year’s orientation course in Paiko Local Government Area.
Represented by Youth and Sports Development Commissioner Yahaya Gulbin-Boka, the governor said his administration recognised the essence of your roles as youths and corps members.
“We are desirous of working with you in the delivery of good governance and services to the people of the state,” he said.
In Akwa Ibom State, Governor Umo Eno said the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme of the NYSC has solutions to Nigeria’s unemployment problem.
Eno said this at the closing ceremony for this year’s orientation course at Nsit Atai.
He said: “The skills acquisition and entrepreneurship development programme of the scheme is the right way to go, it has the solution to the country’s unemployment problem.
“Through it, we can train our people and make them believe in themselves, this is because there is dignity in labour.”
Thenation