Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has passionately urged National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to prioritize skill acquisition for personal growth and national development.
Addressing the 2024 Batch B, Stream 2 Corps members at the permanent orientation camp in Ogbakuta, Iseyin, Makinde emphasized the importance of self-reliance and skill development as pathways to self-actualization.
Represented by Mrs. Olubukola Oladipo, Permanent Secretary at the Oyo State Ministry of Youths and Sports, Governor Makinde highlighted the orientation programme’s role in equipping Corps members with endurance, discipline, and essential skills.
“The orientation programme…will equally provide you with opportunities to add value to yourself by learning some skills for self-actualization, thereby stemming the rising tide of graduates’ unemployment,” he stated.
Makinde stressed the pivotal role of NYSC in fostering national unity, transcending political, social, and ethnic barriers. “The National Youth Service Corps has over the years brought a selection of youths into the same fold…to instill in them the right frame of mind and prepare them physically, mentally, and psychologically for the particular role they have to play in nation-building,” he noted.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment, Makinde praised the appointment of young leaders in government roles and highlighted development programmes designed for skill utilization
“We have equally set up some development programmes where the youths in their different fields can utilize their knowledge and skills which will be beneficial to the Government,” he added.
The governor urged Corps members to view their service year as a period of sacrifice and discovery, encouraging them to make new friendships and learn from others’ experiences.
Oyo State NYSC Coordinator, Mr. Odoba Abel, lauded the governor’s unwavering support for the scheme, recognizing his dedication to its success. “The governor has never hidden his affection for the NYSC as demonstrated by his numerous support to the Scheme. We cannot thank you enough for your unwavering support,” Abel expressed.
Justice Muftau Adegboola administered the oath of allegiance to the Corps members, marking the beginning of their journey of service and skill acquisition in Oyo State.