ASHENEWS reports that the Niger State governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has assured the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) that the state will make provision for funds for renovating structures at the permanent orientation camp in Paiko, Paikoro local government area of the state in its 2024 budget.
The governor stated this while speaking to journalists shortly after presiding over the official opening of the 2023 batch C stream 1 orientation and swearing-in of prospective corps members posted to Niger state and those dislodged from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The governor was represented at the event by the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Yahaya Ibrahim Gulbinboka said that his administration remains committed, not only to ensuring the safety of corps members butto providing a befitting living environment for them.
Bago who described the NYSC as a remarkable platform that unites young people from different backgrounds to work together for the development of the nation said that the scheme has embodied the spirit of patriotism and togetherness.
He therefore urged the corps members to take advantage of the scheme to create lasting legacies.
“Your time here is not just about completing a mandatory service, it is about forging lasting connections, leaving a lasting legacy, and igniting the flame of progress in the lives of those you encounter,” he said.
In her remark, the Niger state coordinator of the NYSC, Mrs. Alidat Olayinka advised the corps members to maintain utmost responsibility stating that their actions must conform with the principles of the scheme.
“One of the objectives of the NYSC is the promotion of integration therefore your assemblage here from diverse backgrounds is toward this noble objective.
“This will not only offer you an opportunity for a broader understanding of the country but also provide an avenue of promoting togetherness.”
She urged them to acquaint themselves with the NYSC Acts and Bylaws as this will guide their conduct during the service year and have a significant influence on their lives even after service.
“Be compliant with camp rules, distance yourself from cultism, and drug abuse, and don’t use social media for spreading fake news but deploy same for the promotion of national unity and development.”
She equally encouraged them to embrace self-employment through the Skills Acquisition and Empowerment Program (SAED) provided by the scheme.
She assured that the management will continue to work with relevant stakeholders for the success of the program.
The state coordinator further sought support for the Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers (HIRD) program, noting that the project is aimed at providing easy access to health care by rural dwellers.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Niger State NYSC governing board and Secretary to the Niger State Government, Abubakar Usman Gawu lauded the scheme for maintaining its focus decades after its establishment.
Gawu, who was represented by the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Nuhu Ngaski said that the program has passed the test of time, and has helped in bridging the gap between diverse ethnic groups in the country.
The SSG who lauded the countless successes recorded by the scheme said that the NYSC represents the dreams, aspirations, and potentials of Nigeria’s youth.
“We will do our bit to ensure they are guided and protected during their service year,” he assured.
