Polycarp Sola-Abakaliki
Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has applauded the role of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC ) in fostering National Unity and integration.
Governor Nwifuru also reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensure the welfare and security of corp members deployed to the state.
The Governor, who gave the applause stated at the closing ceremony of the 2023 Batch B stream 2 orientation camp which was held at the NYSC permanent orientation camp, Old Macgregor College in the Afikpo local government area of the State.
In his words; “It cannot be argued that within the period of your stay here, you must have observed that NYSC orientation camp reflects a true State of Nigeria and it is an important platform for promoting National Unity and Integration.
“It becomes my conviction therefore that your initial apprehension and prejudices will disappear for a better understanding of the diverse cultures and ethnic inclinations of our great country and the reason why we shall remain one united Nigeria”. Nwifuru said.
He expressed confidence that the three-week orientation exercise has made a positive impact on the Corps Members to enable them to contribute their experiences in the development of their host communities while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to ensuring their welfare and security.
“I do not doubt that the camp training has prepared you adequately for the task ahead.
“I therefore enjoined you to contribute your quota; to enhance the betterment of your host community in particular and Ebony State at large.
“Let me once again inform you that NYSC remains the hallmark of National Unity and Integration and you are urged to uphold and sustain it for the progress and prosperity of our dear country.
“Let me assure you of adequate welfare and support during your service year. Proper security arrangement has also been made to ensure that you safely discharge your lawful duties here in Ebonyi State”. Nwifuru added.
The Governor, represented at the event by the State Commissioner for youth and sports development, Mr Richard Idike assured that his administration would continue to uphold the gesture of appreciating and rewarding corp members who Distinguished themselves while serving in the State.
Earlier, the NYSC State Coordinator, Mrs. Nasamu Olayinka Diana said that the orientation course had taken the corps members through a series of activities such as Para-Military Drills, Citizenship and Leadership training, Language studies, Lectures, Skill Acquisitions, and Entrepreneurial Development training.
“These were designed to prepare them for the service year, and having completed this orientation course exercise I am convinced that they are now fully equipped to go into the nooks and crannies of the state as agents of change and development,” Mrs. Olayinka said.
While commending their display of discipline in compliance with camp activities and rules, she charged them to showcase their best in contributing to the development of the state as good ambassadors of their families as well as the NYSC to foster national unity.
“I am aware that, this set of corps members have been wonderful in carrying out their assignments and have displayed a high sense of oneness, discipline, diligence, and dedication to duty. The already existing bond among them is remarkable,” she added.
The coordinator emphasized the need for Corp members to avail themselves of post-camp skill acquisition training and commended the effort of the State Government, security agencies, and other partners in the State for thier various contributions to the success of the scheme in the State