The Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago has advised corps members to better their chances at self-reliance by acquiring skills and embracing entrepreneurship.
Bago stated this during the swearing-in/ induction ceremony of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) 2023 Batch B Stream II Opening/Swearing-In Ceremony held at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Paiko.
The Governor, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Salisu Abubakar said that the call became necessary because white-collar jobs are no longer readily available.
“With what is happening in the country with the current economic downturn and the removal of fuel subsidy, only those in the skilled sector are at an advantage.
“I am aware that the NYSC Skill Acquisition Program commenced from orientation camp. I strongly advise you to participate actively in these trainings and acquire skills for yourselves.
“Note that white-collar jobs are becoming more scarce, therefore it is very important to learn a skill or two to quickly become self-reliant.”
Bago noted that the NYSC provides corps members with an opportunity to contribute their quota to national development.
“As you are aware, the scheme was created with the aim of national integration.
“I, therefore, urge you to continue to live up to the expectations of Nigerians and that of the founding fathers.
“I admonish you against indiscipline. Abide by the ethics of your various profession and also participate actively in camp activities.”
The Governor acknowledged the challenges in the state NYSC camp, assuring that his administration has made it a point of view to upgrade the facility.
He equally commended the NYSC management and assured them that the state government remains resolute in providing an enabling environment for the NYSC to operate in Niger State.
The NYSC Niger State Coordinator, Mrs. Alidat Olayinka, commended the Niger state government for its support in seeing to the welfare and security of corps members.
She equally lauded security agencies and traditional rulers for their support of the scheme.
The State Coordinator charged the corps members to abide strictly by the NYSC Bye-Laws throughout their service year.
“One of the objectives of the NYSC is to promote national unity and integration, therefore your assemblage here from diverse ethnic, religious, and socio-economic backgrounds is in according to this noble objective.
“This will not only offer you the opportunity for a broader understanding of the country but also entrench the culture of working together in an atmosphere filled with friendship, peace, harmony, and a shared vision of a great and prosperous Nigeria.
“Let me remind you that the oath of allegiance you have taken today is very important, as it is expected to guide your conduct in the service year as well as have a significant influence on your life after service. You are also enjoined to acquaint yourselves with the provisions of the NYSC Act and the NYSC Bye-Laws.
“On our part, we will continue to work with relevant stakeholders for the success of the program,” she said.
She urged the stakeholders to support the Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers (HIRD), which is aimed at providing easy access to free and qualitative health care, especially for the rural poor
Similarly, the Chairman of the NYSC State Governing Council and Secretary to the State Government, Salisu Abubakar urged the corps members to distinguish themselves in all their activities.
According to him, the corps members as one of Nigeria’s greatest assets must ensure they respect constituted authority throughout their service year.
Abubakar, represented by Musa Rogo Ibrahim, Permanent Secretary, General Duties assured them the NYSC governing board in the state would continue to live up to its responsibility of providing transport, accommodations and security for corps members.
PIAK
