By Adedotun Ajayi

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Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has said his administration will continue to support the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in the State.

He made this assertion during the official swearing-in ceremony of the 2024 Batch B (Stream 1) NYSC members at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Ikare-Akoko on Tuesday.

While welcoming the Corps members on behalf of the good people of the state, Aiyedatiwa congratulated them on their academic achievements, which qualified them for the NYSC programme. He urged the new Corps Members to prepare themselves for the challenging yet fulfilling tasks of national development, emphasizing their relevance to the current era, marked by significant questions and concerns about the future of Nigerian youths.

The governor said, “Your call-up to service is coming at a time in our national history when questions and concerns are being raised about the development and future of our youths. This is, therefore, a time for sober reflection on the evolution of our dear country and your roles as catalysts for the much-needed national rebirth and reconstruction.”

Addressing concerns about the infrastructure at the orientation camp, he assured prompt actions to maintain the facilities, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to the welfare and security of the Corps members across the state. “Our government will continue to support the National Youth Service Corps in the State, at all times, to ensure that you have a memorable service year,” he affirmed.

Governor Aiyedatiwa also commended the camp officials and NYSC stakeholders for their ongoing support, which has sustained the scheme over the years. He encouraged the corps members to cooperate with camp officials to ensure a successful orientation course and service year.

The governor later inspected Sunshine Stadium in Ikare-Akoko and pledged to make it fully operational, noting that it has been underutilized.

Earlier, the State Coordinator of NYSC Ondo State, Mr Samuel Amaramiro Pepple, said that a total of 1,423 corps members, comprising 607 males and 816 females, had been registered to serve in Ondo State. Pepple also expressed profound appreciation to Governor Aiyedatiwa for his presence and unwavering support.

Additionally, the Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Saka Yusuf-Ogunleye, urged the Corps members to be dedicated to serving their country, highlighting the peaceful nature of Ondo state and encouraging them to take advantage of its tourism opportunities.