Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has described nation-building as a task requiring the collective efforts of all, particularly the knowledge, talents and gifts of young Nigerians.
The governor stated this in Iseyin on Friday during the opening of the 2024 Batch C Stream I orientation camp of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
Makinde urged corps members deployed to the state to channel their knowledge, talents and gifts to position Nigeria positively within the comity of nations.
He noted that the survival of the NYSC scheme had, over the years, remained a pointer to its resilience and continued relevance to national development.
According to the governor, represented by the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Salihu Adelabu, the scheme is a pertinent reminder that loyalty to one’s nation is non-negotiable.
“As corps members, your roles in nation-building cannot be quantified. You are the torchbearers of positive change.
“Over the years, your predecessors have been consistent in demonstrating their commitment to building a better Nigeria through their contributions to all sectors of our economy, ranging from education, agriculture, health, and rural infrastructural development.
“The society is looking up to you to surpass their records,” he said.
The state NYSC Coordinator, Mr Abel Odoba, enjoined the corps members to take the orientation course seriously and participate in all camp activities.
He described the three-week orientation programme as one filled with various activities designed to ensure the accomplishment of the objectives of the NYSC scheme.
This, he said, includes citizenship and leadership grooming.
Odoba urged the corps members to seize the unique opportunity of the national service to learn about the culture and way of life of their host communities.
“As you take the Oath of Allegiance today, you must be prepared to commit yourselves to service, not only to your country but also to the communities you will be posted to serve for the next one year.
“You are not just young men and women wearing uniforms; you are ambassadors of change, symbols of hope, and drivers of progress for Nigeria,” he said.
