Afikpo, Nigeria – Gov. Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has urged National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members posted to the state to play active roles in civic leadership, in the interest of the state and country.
Nwifuru made the call on Friday at the NYSC permanent orientation camp, Afikpo, during the swearing-in ceremony of the 2025 NYSC Batch B, Stream 1 corps members posted to the state.
Nwifuru, represented by the state Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, Richard Idike, also urged the corps members to be active in ensuring youth development.
“The state ministry of youth development and sports will assist you in promoting various forms of social engagements.
“The engagements come in form of debates, youth clubs, peace campaigns and health outreaches.
“This call is not just to duty but a gift to grow, serve and inspire.
“You should bring value and light upon your host communities, leaving behind a legacy of impact,.”
The governor said that his government has revitalised technical and artisan skill hubs across the state, including at the Ezamgbo Industrial City.
“These hubs are focussed on vocational skills development in areas of tailoring, welding, carpentry and solar technology among others.
“Corps members with relevant interests are invited to train, teach or innovate within these centres.
“Ebonyi government, through the State Micro-, Small- and Medium- Enterprises Development Agency provides funding, mentorship and business incubation support to youth entrepreneurs.”
He assured the corps members of enhanced welfare and security at all times while urging communities to create conducive environment for them to operate.
The State Coordinator of the NYSC, Mrs Oladeinde Foluke, noted that the corps members were conforming with all camp requirements.
“A total of 1,268 corps members, made up of 624 males and 644 females who were duly registered took their oath of allegiance.
The oath of allegiance was administered on the corps members by the state. Chief Judge, Elvis Ngene, represented by Justice Nicholas Nwode.
Foluke urged the corps members to realise that the orientation course is the foundation upon which their service year is built.
“You should therefore approach it with discipline, open mindedness and sense of duty as the nation hopes on you for positive transformation.”
She urged them to emulate their seven predecessors who received national recognition at the recent combined presidential honours award.
