By Adeboye Ado
Ondo State Governor, Hon.Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has charged members of the National Youth Service Corps to remain politically neutral and focus on making meaningful contributions to their host communities throughout their service year.
Aiyedatiwa gave the charge on Wednesday at the closing ceremony of the 2026 Batch ‘B’ Stream II orientation course held at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Ikare-Akoko, Ondo State.
The governor, whose address was delivered by the NYSC State Coordinator, Mrs Kuburat Bakare, urged the corps members to demonstrate patriotism, discipline, integrity and professionalism as they proceed to their various places of primary assignment.
He said, “As you proceed to your various places of primary assignment, I urge you to approach your responsibilities with dedication, integrity and professionalism. Make meaningful contributions to your host organisations and communities.”
Aiyedatiwa also challenged the corps members to make their Community Development Service projects more impactful by identifying genuine needs in their host communities and working with residents to provide practical solutions.
He said the corps members should respect the customs and traditions of their host communities while maintaining neutrality in local political and traditional affairs.
The governor stated, “You should also remain neutral in local political and traditional matters and concentrate on your responsibilities as Corps Members.”
Aiyedatiwa further urged the corps members to uphold the image of the NYSC and avoid acts of indiscipline, misconduct and other behaviour capable of damaging their reputation or that of the scheme.
He also advised them to remain security-conscious, urging them to avoid risky situations and promptly alert relevant authorities whenever they noticed suspicious activities.
The governor assured the corps members that the state government would continue to work with the NYSC, security agencies, traditional rulers and community leaders to ensure their safety and welfare during their service year.
He encouraged the corps members to use the period to acquire practical skills through the NYSC Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development programme, stressing that the experience could prepare them for life after national service.
Aiyedatiwa said, “Do not wait for opportunities to come to you. Prepare yourselves to recognise opportunities and, where necessary, create them. The knowledge, relationships and experiences you gain during this period can become valuable assets in the next chapter of your lives.”
The governor urged the corps members to contribute to national development through peaceful conduct, responsible leadership and selfless service, reminding them that the values acquired during the orientation programme should continue to guide them beyond the service year.
He subsequently declared the 2026 Batch ‘B’ Stream II orientation course officially closed on behalf of the Ondo State Government and the people of the state.