The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General YD Ahmed, has called on corps members to leave a lasting positive impact on their host communities and places of primary assignment.
Addressing the 2024 Batch ‘C’ (Stream 1) corps members at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Ikare-Akoko, Ondo State, General Ahmed encouraged them to contribute meaningfully during their service year, emphasizing that society holds high expectations of them.
Ahmed commended the warm reception accorded to him and his entourage at the camp. He urged the corps members to remain focused and to avoid distractions that could derail their future, adding that the Federal Government’s investment in them should not go to waste.
Fostering Unity and Leadership
The Director-General highlighted the orientation course as a platform to promote national unity and mutual understanding among Nigerian youths.
“Your coming together under this regimented arrangement is intentional,” he said. “It allows you to appreciate Nigeria’s diversity, share ideas devoid of rancor, and learn essential leadership skills. To lead effectively, you must first be a good follower.”
He also advised the corps members to respect the values, customs, and traditions of their host communities, stressing the importance of cultural sensitivity and mutual respect.
Emphasis on Skill Development
General Ahmed urged the corps members to fully engage in the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) program, which has successfully empowered many ex-corps members to become self-employed and employers of labor.
“I encourage you to take the in-camp training seriously,” he said. “NYSC has partnered with financial institutions and empowerment agencies to provide take-off grants and loans, ensuring you have the resources to establish your dream businesses.”
He also advocated for the continuation of skill training post-camp, emphasizing its potential to contribute to economic growth and self-reliance.
Safety and Conduct
The Director-General warned against night travel, citing the risks of accidents caused by reckless drivers under the influence of drugs. He advised corps members to travel only during the day and use designated motor parks.
“Life has no duplicate,” he cautioned. “Avoid frivolous journeys and serve diligently where you are posted.”
He also urged corps members to use social media responsibly and to project the NYSC scheme positively. Any violations, he warned, would attract prosecution under the NYSC Act and Bye-Law.
Dress Code and Discipline
General Ahmed stressed the importance of adhering to the NYSC dress code, noting that proper attire garners respect and enhances the corps members’ image in society.
Commendations and Highlights
The State Coordinator, Mrs. Kuburat Omowumi Bakare, reported that corps members were well-adjusted to camp activities and maintained discipline. She also shared plans to address food security, including acquiring arable land for farming through the support of the host monarch, Oba Adefemi Adeleke Adegbite-Adedoyin, the Owa-Ale Adimula of Ikareland.
The visit concluded with the presentation of three bulls to the corps members and cash gifts to outstanding individuals, including the Corps Camp Directors, Parade Commander, and members of the cultural troupe and Man ‘O’ War corps.
The Director-General’s address underscored NYSC’s commitment to developing disciplined, self-reliant, and socially responsible youths capable of driving positive change in Nigeria.
