By Orumwense Sarah O.
The Edo State Governor, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, has officially declared opened, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) 2024 Batch C, Stream II Orientation Course for corps members deployed to the State, at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Okada, Ovia North-East Local Government Area (LGA) of the State.
Represented by the Functioning Permanent Secretary, Balogun Aiyegbeni, the Governor welcomed the corps members to the State, assuring them that their welfare, safety and security is paramount to his administration.
The Governor emphasized the conducive environment of the State, describing it as where corps members can thrive and contribute meaningfully, while enjoying a fulfilling service year. He added that the State holds immense potentials for personal and professional growth, with numerous opportunities in agriculture, education, technology, entrepreneurship, tourism amongst others.
Sen. Okpebholo assured corps members of his administration’s interest in their successes. In his words, “We believe that you as young Nigerians, your enthusiasm, creativity and eagerness to learn are qualities that can leave an indelible mark on Edo State. The National Youth Service Corps has a mission to unite our Nation, foster development and empower young people. I urge you to cooperate fully with the NYSC management during and after the Orientation programme”.
He concluded that the orientation programme is designed to equip them with skills, knowledge, and the mindset needed to excel during the service year and in their future endeavours and as such, it should be given the attention it deserves.
Earlier, in a welcome address, the NYSC Director-General, Brigadier-General Y. D. Ahmed, represented by the NYSC State Coordinator, Mrs. Ben-Ushie Frances Ifeoma, noted that the NYSC camp in Edo State commenced the orientation course with 1,658 registered corps members, comprising 720 males and 938 females.
Mrs. Ben-Ushie congratulated the corps members for their successful enlistment into the noble scheme, saying it marks the beginning of a new chapter in their lives, which will contribute to their growth as individual and professionals.
She urged corps members to be disciplined and willing to learn as it is the means of successfully realizing the objectives of the NYSC. She testified that over the years, the Scheme has helped to build life-long friendships and create networks that can open doors to greater opportunities.
She appreciated the Edo State Government for continuously providing luxurious buses to convey corps members to the 18 LGAs at the end of every Orientation Camp as well as the recent supply of 1,000 plastic chairs and 700 mattresses. She also highlighted some pressing challenges that currently affect the smooth implementation of some NYSC programmes in the State.
Other dignitaries at the event included the Commander, Military Hospital, represented by Major O. S. Ojo; Comptroller of Immigration, represented by A. E. Okungbowa; the Vice Chancellor, Igbinedion University Okada, Prof. Lawrence Ikechukwu Ezemonye, represented by the Dean of Student Affairs, Charlse Ochem; amongst others.
Highpoint of the event was the administration of the Oath of Allegiance to corps members by the Chief Judge of Edo State, Hon. Justice Daniel Iyobosa Okungbowa, represented by Hon. Justice Vestee Otumaye Eboreime. The corps members swore to serve their fatherland with dedication, honesty, and loyalty.
