AKINWALE ABOLUWADE
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has declared open the 2025 Batch ‘A’ Stream II orientation of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), advising corps members to approach their service year with discipline, dedication and patriotic zeal.
The ceremony, which took place at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Ogbakuta, Iseyin, was attended by senior government officials, NYSC management, traditional leaders, and hundreds of corps members from across the country.
Mrs. Kudirat Mustapha, Director of Youth Development in the Ministry of Youth and Sports, who represented Governor Makinde, described the NYSC as a vital instrument for national unity, noting its continued relevance in fostering integration and social cohesion.
“The NYSC has transcended ethnic, political, and religious boundaries, serving as a powerful vehicle for unity among Nigerians,” he said adding that “It is structured to instill the right values in our youths, preparing them for meaningful contributions to national development.”
Governor Makinde encouraged corps members to take full advantage of the orientation course, especially the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme, to build self-reliance and future readiness.
“As young Nigerians with enormous potential, I urge you to embrace this experience wholeheartedly. The orientation will equip you mentally, physically, and emotionally for the responsibilities ahead,” the governor said.
Governor Makinde reiterated his administration’s commitment to the welfare of corps members, highlighting ongoing youth-focused initiatives designed to harness their talents for the benefit of Oyo State.
He also welcomed the new NYSC State Coordinator, Mr. Kayode Ola Peters, urging him to sustain the successes of the Scheme and work closely with stakeholders to enhance the welfare and performance of corps members in the state.
In his address, Mr. Peters expressed gratitude for his appointment as the 22nd State Coordinator of NYSC in Oyo State. He pledged to serve with dedication and uphold the standards set by his predecessors.
“This being my first orientation course in Oyo State, I take on this responsibility with humility and a deep sense of purpose,” he said. “Our duty is to serve and support the corps members — they are the heartbeat of this Scheme.”
He lauded the Director General of NYSC, Brigadier General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, for his visionary leadership and praised the recent increase in corps members’ monthly allowance to ₦77,000, calling it a “bold statement of youth empowerment and recognition.”
Peters also thanked Governor Makinde for his continued support, while acknowledging the contributions of other key stakeholders, including the Chief Judge of Oyo State, Hon. Justice Iyabo Yerima; Chairman of Iseyin Local Government, Hon. Fadiran Razak Bisi; and the Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba Sefiu Oyebola Adeyeri III.
Addressing the new corps members, he urged them to treat the oath-taking ceremony as a personal commitment to service.
“Let today mark not just the start of your service year, but a pledge to serve with integrity, humility, and passion. Represent your families, institutions, and the NYSC with pride and honour,” he said.
He concluded by calling for sustained support from both the public and private sectors, stressing the essential role corps members play in advancing education, healthcare, agriculture, and community development across Nigeria.
