Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu has called on corps members posted by the National Youth Service Corps to the state to actively promote national unity and integration during their service year.
Speaking on Friday at the swearing-in ceremony for the 2024 Batch C Stream II corps members held at the Wamakko Permanent Orientation Camp, the governor, represented by the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Mustapha Muhammad, urged the corps members to steer clear of social vices such as cultism, drug abuse and misconduct.
The governor lauded the NYSC management for its role in shaping and mentoring Nigerian youths to align with government policies and programmes. He highlighted how the scheme has significantly contributed to the nation’s growth and development across various sectors.
Aliyu emphasised the service’s critical role as a unifying force among youths from diverse ethnic, religious and academic backgrounds. He commended the scheme for fostering patriotism, industry and hard work, citing its positive impact on socio-economic development through community-driven efforts.
“I commend you for answering the call to serve our fatherland. History will undoubtedly remember you for your patriotic zeal.
“I warmly welcome you to Sokoto State, the Seat of the Caliphate. Your deployment here should be seen as the will of God. The three weeks of orientation require strength, discipline, tolerance and sacrifice, but these will form a strong foundation for your future endeavours.
“The relevance of the NYSC in today’s Nigeria is indisputable. You have a duty to sustain its noble role in nation-building,” he added.
The governor assured corps members of his administration’s commitment to their safety, urging security agencies and community leaders to provide a conducive environment for them to live and work.
He reiterated his administration’s focus on empowering youths through skill acquisition programmes to harness their creativity and enhance the state’s economic development.
In his remarks, the NYSC State Coordinator, Yakubu Usman advised the corps members to embrace discipline and adapt to the regimented camp lifestyle. He explained that the orientation exercise was designed to prepare them physically and mentally for meaningful contributions to national development.
He also encouraged them to take advantage of the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development programme, noting its potential to equip them for self-reliance.
The NYSC coordinator expressed gratitude to the governor and the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Abubakar III, for their unwavering support of the scheme.
