AKINWALE ABOLUWADE
The acting Director, National Youth Service Corps, General Services, Mrs. Yetunde Abimbola Baderinwa, has advised Corps Members to prioritize learning and adopt work ethics during their National Service year to enhance productivity and foster teamwork. She encouraged them to use this period as an opportunity for self-reflection and personal development.
Mrs. Baderinwa gave this advice during her visit to the NYSC Oyo State Permanent Orientation Camp in Iseyin, where she addressed the 2024 Batch C Stream 1 Corps Members deployed to Oyo State, alongside those dislodged from Lagos State for their Orientation Exercise.
During her speech, she commended the Corps Members and Camp Officials for their warm reception and lauded the positive atmosphere in the camp. Representing the NYSC Director-General, Brigadier General Y.D. Ahmed, she welcomed the Corps Members to Oyo State, describing it as a “Pace-Setter State” with compassionate and dedicated officers under the leadership of the State Coordinator, Chief Odoba Abel Oche.
Mrs. Baderinwa praised the good conduct exhibited by Corps Members since their arrival and urged them to remain disciplined and law-abiding. She emphasized the importance of respecting the culture and traditions of their host communities and encouraged them to identify and address the needs of these communities to leave a lasting positive legacy.
She further advised the Corps Members to build meaningful relationships during their service year, highlighting the value of connections formed at this stage. “Orientation camp is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Nurture the relationships you make here and cherish them for the future,” she said.
Addressing the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) program, the Acting Director urged Corps Members to take advantage of the initiative, which equips them with skills to become self-reliant and employ others. She noted that the NYSC collaborates with financial institutions like the Bank of Industry (BOI), Access Bank, and Wema Bank to provide interest-free loans and grants to support Corps Members’ entrepreneurial ventures.
On social media usage, Mrs. Baderinwa cautioned Corps Members to be responsible and spread positive narratives about the NYSC Scheme. She also encouraged them to be constructive in addressing national issues and contribute to the country’s development.
“See Nigeria as your home and strive to make positive changes wherever you find yourself. It’s okay to speak up on issues, but do so constructively,” she advised.
She concluded her visit by reminding Corps Members to prioritize their safety by avoiding late-night movements and maintaining moderation in their behavior at their Places of Primary Assignment.
In his address, the Oyo State Coordinator, Chief Odoba Abel Oche, expressed gratitude to the Acting Director for inspiring the Corps Members and giving them valuable advice. He reported that the Corps Members were well-behaved and adapting to the regimented camp life.
The visit featured a cultural dance performance by Corps Members and a presentation of cash gifts by the Acting Director to some groups, adding excitement to the occasion.
