Embrace National Unity – NYSC DG Tells Corps Members at Niger Orientation Camp
By Roseline Okakah
The Director General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General O.O. Nafiu, has urged corps members deployed to Niger State to embrace the core values of national integration, unity in diversity, and self-development, as enshrined in the NYSC mandate.
Brigadier General Nafiu delivered this charge during his official visit to the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Paiko, Niger State.
While addressing the corps members, the DG described the NYSC scheme as a divine institution that has continued to thrive since its inception.
He stated that the deployment of corps members across Nigeria is aimed at fostering national unity and exposing them to the diverse cultures and values of other regions.
“The NYSC orientation camp is about learning the uniqueness of other cultures, respecting them, and fostering unity in diversity,” he said.
Brigadier General Nafiu emphasised the importance of the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme, encouraging corps members to take it seriously, noting that it has the potential to make them self-reliant.
“The SAED programme is not a waste of time. It can put food on your table. I urge you to engage actively in it, and you will not regret it,” he stated.
The DG advised corps members to complete their service year regardless of foreign opportunities, adding that the NYSC certificate remains a valuable asset. He urged them to contribute meaningfully to the communities where they are posted.
“NYSC is a service to the nation and humanity. Wherever you are posted, give back to society,” he said.
The DG further urged corps members to leverage social media to promote positive change and development in relation to the NYSC scheme, rather than seeking fleeting fame.
He reaffirmed the scheme’s commitment to the welfare and security of corps members, noting that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is doing its best to safeguard lives and property, particularly those of corps members serving across the country.
In her remarks, the NYSC Niger State Coordinator, Mrs Abdulwahab Olayinka, presented the camp report and outlined ongoing activities since the orientation programme began.
Olayinka, however, highlighted some challenges, including inadequate toilets and bathrooms, insufficient mattresses and bunk beds, poor condition of ambulance vehicles, lack of utility vehicles, and the absence of a proper drainage system.
She noted that these issues fall under the purview of the state government and expressed optimism that ongoing engagements with state authorities would lead to improvements.
“The governor is working towards the construction of a new orientation camp, and we are hopeful of a positive outcome,” she said.
Brigadier General Nafiu congratulated the corps members on their academic achievements and reminded them that they have a role to play in building the nation.
He concluded with a message of hope and encouragement, assuring corps members of the NYSC’s continued collaboration with the government and NGOs to improve the scheme within available resources.
