Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has reiterated the importance of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), describing it as a lasting instrument for nation-building, unity, and integration.
Speaking on Friday at the swearing-in of the 2025 Batch B Stream 2 corps members at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Iseyin, Makinde highlighted the scheme’s enduring relevance. Represented by the Director of Youth Development, Alhaja Kuditat Mustapha, the governor noted that since its establishment in 1973, the NYSC has remained a pillar for promoting national unity, fostering integration, and encouraging selfless service.
Makinde congratulated the corps members on their successful mobilisation and urged them to take the orientation programme seriously. According to him, activities such as physical training, leadership drills, skills acquisition, lectures on national issues, and community development initiatives are designed to instil discipline, reshape perspectives, and prepare them for service.
He reminded the corps members that their behaviour during the service year would reflect their personal character and level of commitment to nation-building. “Your conduct, attitude, and choices during this service year will reflect not just your personal character but also your commitment to the country,” he said.
On the role of the state government, Makinde assured the corps members of their safety and welfare, stressing that Oyo State would continue to partner with NYSC to support initiatives that empower and protect participants.
He also encouraged them to take the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme seriously as a pathway to self-reliance. Citing examples of past corps members who became job creators through SAED, Makinde urged the new batch to seize the opportunity to shape their future.
Describing the oath of allegiance as a call to serve, he charged them to contribute meaningfully to their host communities while respecting the culture and traditions of Oyo State. “This is a call to serve your country with loyalty, to uplift the communities you are sent to, and to leave a lasting legacy of development and unity,” he added.
Makinde expressed optimism that the service year would be mutually beneficial, noting, “By the end of your service year, you would have added value to our communities, and Oyo State would have added value to your life.”
Earlier, the Oyo State NYSC Coordinator, Mr Kayode Peters, commended the governor for his unwavering support for the scheme, acknowledging his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment and national development. He congratulated the corps members and encouraged them to embrace discipline, teamwork, and active participation throughout the orientation course.
Peters reminded them to uphold camp rules and fully engage in the programme’s lectures, drills, and SAED training, which he described as critical for nurturing patriotism, leadership, and resilience.
