In a motivational address, Victoria Nnenna Ani, the NYSC Ondo State coordinator, has called upon the incoming cohort of graduate youth joining the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to exemplify the selflessness demonstrated by notable figures such as Chief Jeremiah Obafemi Awolowo, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, and Alhaji Abubakar Tafawa Balewa during their service year and beyond.
Ani emphasised that “the historical contributions of these nationalist leaders, pivotal in shaping Nigeria’s identity, should inspire prospective corps members to navigate challenges with resolve and aspire to become contemporary icons and role models.”
Addressing the corps members at the NYSC permanent orientation camp in Ikare-Akoko, the state coordinator underscored the significance of their commitment in the broader context of national development.
She urged the youth to seize the opportunities offered by the conducive environment and continue the legacy of patriotism.
Ani further noted the evolving role of youngindividuals in the political landscape, citing recent developments such as the appointment of Orire Agbaje, a 400-level economics student from the University of Ibadan, to the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms.
This, she stated, signifies the growing reliance the government places on the youth demographic.
Highlighting the 50-year history of the National Youth Service Corps, Ani reinforced its core objective of nurturing a generation of disciplined and nationally unified Nigerians.
Addressing the aspiring corps members, she challenged them to contribute selflessly to the betterment of their nation and collaborate across diverse backgrounds to address the prevailing challenges.
In her guidance, Ani urged the young participants to avoid any behaviour that could mar their academic achievements or tarnish the reputation of the NYSC.
She emphasised the corps’ reputation for fostering disciplined and accomplished individuals, committed to making positive contributions to the nation’s image.
To ensure adherence to the standards set by the NYSC, Ani sternly warned against violating the established rules and regulations governing the orientation camp.
She affirmed her commitment to maintaining discipline and upholding the integrity of the program by taking appropriate action against any offenders.
Concluding her address, the state coordinator inaugurated the camp court committee, urging them to perform their duties fairly and within the confines of their mandate.
She reiterated that “corps members should operate within the boundaries of the law, as any deviation might prompt the committee to apply the provisions of the NYSC bye-law to address non-compliance among participants.”
