Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has called on the 1,667 corps members deployed to the state to be agents of positive development in their host communities across all local government areas.
Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony of the 2024 Batch C, Stream 1 Corps Members at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Boro Town on Friday, Governor Diri, represented by the Commissioner for Youth Development, Alfred Nimizigha, assured the corps members of the state government’s commitment to their security, welfare, and overall experience. He described Bayelsa as a “home away from home” and encouraged the corps members to embrace the ideals of national service with enthusiasm.
Governor’s Message
Diri highlighted the critical role of the youth in nation-building, urging the corps members to take their service year seriously.
“As I welcome you to Bayelsa State, I also urge you to be agents of positive development in the communities you are deployed to across all the local government areas of the state,” he said.
“Our duty is to ensure your safety and welfare, and on your part, you are to remain committed to the ideals of national service. I therefore urge you to stay focused as future leaders of our great country and embrace this new chapter of your life with vigour and optimism,” Diri added.
NYSC Coordinator’s Address
In her remarks, the State NYSC Coordinator, Mrs. Okpalifo Charity, expressed gratitude to the governor for his unwavering support of the scheme. She emphasized the importance of the orientation course in preparing corps members for the challenges and opportunities of the service year.
“Deliberate programmes have been well designed to adequately prepare and equip you for optimum performance,” Charity said, advising corps members to avoid social vices and actions that could tarnish the image of the NYSC.
Encouragement and Expectations
The event underscored the collaborative efforts between the Bayelsa State Government and the NYSC in fostering youth development. With assurances of safety and a conducive environment, corps members were encouraged to immerse themselves in their communities and contribute to grassroots progress.
This marks the beginning of a year-long national service for the corps members, who are expected to leave lasting impacts in their places of primary assignment.