Governor Francis Nwifuru has informed the 2026 Batch C Stream I I Corps Members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) posted to Ebonyj state, that they have started a journey that would define their lives in becoming responsible citizens of Nigeria.
Nwifuru represented by the Permanent Secretary in the State Ministry of Youth Development and Sports, Mr Obiesie Ogbonna, made the declaration during the swearing in of the corps members at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Afikpo.
The governor noted that the journey would take them beyond their homes and institutions; exposing them to new people, cultures, communities and experiences, becoming a veritable opportunity to make them responsible citizens of the country.
“You have come from different parts of Nigeria but for the next one year, you have a common responsibility to serve our country with patriotism, discipline, dedication and a strong sense of purpose.
“You have come to a state that is peaceful, hospitable, has great agricultural potential, hardworking people, emerging industries and expanding opportunities for young Nigerians.
“Our administration remains committed to building a state where development creates opportunities, infrastructure supports economic activities and young people equipped with skills required to compete in a changing world.”
He noted that his administration has thrived in continued expansion of road and bridge networks across the state but also created.an environment that supports enterprise, investment and skills development.
” The establishment of the National Automotive Design and Development Council Training Centre, Abakaliki is another step towards equipping our young people with practical skills and connecting them to emerging opportunities in automotive and technical sectors.
“You ahould realise that opportunities are not always found by waiting for employment but created through skills, innovation, enterprise and the courage to solve problems.
” I therefore encourage you to take full advantage of the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme of the NYSC, to become self-reliant, create employment and contribute meaningfully to the economy.”
He noted that Ebonyi State recognises the sacrifices made by corps members serving away from their homes and remain committed to supporting their welfare, security and well-being throughout the service year.
“Feel at home, serve with integrity, learn with an open mind, work with dedication and leave a positive footprint wherever you are posted.”
The State Coordinator of the NYSC, Mrs Malgwi Maidariya, re-affirmed that the ceremony marked the beginning of another important chapter in the lives of the young Nigerians as they commence their service to the nation.
Maidariya noted that the ceremony was also an opportunity to reaffirm the shared commitment of the NYSC, the Ebonyi State Government and other stakeholders, to national unity, youth development and service to humanity.
“I commend the Governor Francis Nwifuru’s administration for its emphasis on human capital development, youth empowerment, skills acquisition, infrastructure and inclusive development.
“These noble policies align closely with the objectives of the NYSC and creates opportunities for corps members to contribute meaningfully to the development of the state and country.
“The theme of the orientation course: Re–imagining the NYSC Orientation Course: Building Resilient, Responsible and Service-Oriented Corps Members for a Changing World: reflects the need to equip corps members with the values and practical skills for effective response to contemporary challenges.”
She noted that security consciousness, responsible digital engagement, leadership, entrepreneurship and civic responsibility, are important components of the orientation course, to prepare the youths to positively contribute in the social and economic development of Ebonyi State and Nigeria.
“We however, seek the significant improvement of the standard and functionality of this Orientation Camp through the modernisation of the camp kitchen, construction of a standard dining hall, establishment of a functional SAED Centre; renovation of the perimeter fencing among others.”
Mr Julius Dare, one of the corps members, thanked God for granting the corps members travelling safety and pledged to use the gains of the orienation course for societal benefits.
