The Gombe State Coordinator of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Chinwe Nwachuku, has called on corps members to remain patriotic and uphold the ideals of national unity and service as they commence their one-year mandatory assignments across the state.

Nwachuku made the appeal on Tuesday during the closing ceremony of the 2025 Batch ‘B’ Stream II Orientation Course at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Amada, Akko Local Government Area. Declaring the three-week exercise closed, she reminded corps members that their service year was an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the development of their host communities.

“You must be patriots. Demonstrate love and loyalty to our dear country wherever you find yourselves,” Nwachuku said. “The NYSC scheme was founded on the principles of unity, discipline, and selfless service values that every corps member must uphold.”

She also urged participants to sustain the momentum of the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme by engaging in post-camp training to enhance self-reliance and employability.

“Your service year is not just a mandatory national duty; it is an opportunity to touch lives and make a lasting impact,” she added.

Nwachuku commended camp officials, collaborating agencies, and security personnel for their dedication and professionalism throughout the orientation exercise, which she said contributed to its success.

The event featured a valedictory parade and platoon presentations, showcasing corps members’ discipline, creativity, and teamwork.

The NYSC, established under General Yakubu Gowon’s administration, remains a cornerstone of Nigeria’s post-civil war reconstruction efforts, promoting national integration and fostering youth involvement in community development across the country.