The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Ebonyi State, Southeast Nigeria, has charged members of the Corps who are nearing the end of their orientation course to provide selfless service to the communities where they are stationed.
This was stated in an address given by the NYSC Director-General, Professor Shauibu Ibrahim, who was represented by the state Coordinator, Mrs Mercy Bamai Dawuda, at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Old MacGregor College, Afikpo North Local Government Area of the State, during the terminal parade/closing ceremony of 2021 Batch ‘C’ stream II.
Volunteering in the host community
Professor Ibrahim urged them to contribute to the community’s living standards in their current location.
“I implore you to add value to the communities by participating in individual and group Community Development Service projects that will improve their living conditions.” The NYSC Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development SAED program, as I mentioned during your swearing-in ceremony, is designed to prepare you for self-employment and wealth creation. I was blown away by your enthusiasm during the vocational and entrepreneurial training you received at the Camp,” he urged.
The DG praised them for their patriotic zeal and high level of discipline, both of which contributed to the exercise’s success.
“My dear compatriots, the next phase of the Service Year is critical, as the entire nation looks to you for your expected contributions to our fatherland’s unity and development. As a result, I implore you to keep the spirit of patriotism, hard work, and perseverance that you acquired during the Orientation Course.
“You will receive your postings to Places of Primary Assignment shortly after this ceremony.” I strongly advise you to accept any assignment and to do your best to carry out your responsibilities diligently. You must also respect and appreciate the cultures of the host communities,” he said.
He encouraged them to build on their newfound skills by taking advantage of post-camp training opportunities.
“We, for one, will continue to strengthen our partnership with relevant stakeholders in order to maximize the program’s impact,” he said.
Security
He reaffirmed Management’s commitment to the Corps members’ security and general well-being.
“As a result, we’re in constant contact with security agencies and other stakeholders to ensure your safety while also addressing other critical needs for a successful service year,” he stated.
He urged them to be vigilant about security at all times.
He also advised them to avoid high-risk activities such as staying out late, attending late-night parties, visiting dangerous locations, and accepting a ride from strangers.
“I also implore you to abstain from drug use and trafficking, as well as cybercrime, advanced-fee-fraud, and other vices.”
“Remember, too, that participating in local politics in your host communities is a no-no for you.” Always be conscious of the implications of your actions or inaction for the image of your families, the NYSC, and your graduation institutions.
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“Furthermore, I’d like to reiterate our cautionary message about unauthorized trips and nighttime excursions. According to statistics compiled by relevant agencies, night travel is a major risk factor for road traffic accidents, and such timing may also make rescue efforts futile. On this basis, all Corps members in transit are now required to cut short their trips after six o’clock in the evening and spend the night at military barracks or other officially designated safe locations.
“While I applaud you for following the Covid-19 prevention protocols during your time at Camp, I would like to remind you that the virus is still present.” As a result, you should remain vigilant in all situations where you find yourself. I also encourage you to get the Covid-19 vaccination and, if you’ve already had it, keep an eye out for an invitation for the second jab, if necessary. In addition, I expect you to assist in educating members of the host communities about preventive measures, such as the importance of accepting vaccines,” he said.
He urged Corps Employers to not only accept Corps Members who will be assigned to them, but also to provide an environment that allows them to reach their full potential.
“I implore you to provide mentoring while also enhancing the leadership skills that they gained during the Orientation exercise. In the same vein, I urge state and local government officials, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders to support the Corps members’ Community Development Service initiatives,” he said.
Ibrahim praised the State Coordinator and other Camp officials for their hard work and dedication, which contributed to the Orientation Course’s success.
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He expressed his sincere appreciation to the Federal Government for its unwavering support for the Scheme. Similarly, he thanked state governments, local government councils, security agencies, the Presidential Steering Committee on Covid-19, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, the National Agency for the Control of AIDS, the TY Danjuma Foundation, traditional rulers, Corps Employers, and other stakeholders for their support.
The total number of 2021 batch ‘C’ stream II candidates is 1651, with 805 females and 846 males.
