By Chukwuka Ugokwe :
The Director of the NYSC South East Area Office I, Mr. Ayodele Adegoke, has underscored the importance of skill acquisition for self reliance and economic sustainability of Corps Members and youths
Adegoke was speaking when he paid an inspection visit to the Nnamdi Azikiwe NYSC Unity Permanent Orientation Camp during the swearing-in ceremony of the 2024 Batch ‘C’ Stream II Corps Members.
We gathered that the inspection was part of his routine oversight of NYSC facilities in Anambra, Enugu and Ebonyi states.
While commending the Corps Members for their exemplary conduct and adherence to the camp’s rules and regulations, he enjoined them to acquire vocational skills to empower themselves.
He also urged them to leverage the NYSC reward system, which includes national, state, and local government honors awards, for their dedication and hard work throughout their service year.
The inspection tour saw Adegoke visiting key facilities within the camp, including the kitchen and the clinic, where he emphasized the importance of maintaining good hygiene and utilizing the available health services, especially with the ongoing health insurance coverage through the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA).
He reassured the Corps Members that they were covered and advised them to visit NHIA-approved hospitals if needed.
The Director, further applauded the Corps Members for their good behaviour and enthusiasm, which he noted were vital for the success of their orientation programme.
He also highlighted the significance of the NYSC’s Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) program.
“Take advantage of this opportunity to learn a skill. This programme is designed to make you not only job-ready but to empower you to become employers of labour,” he said.
The Director also touched on the importance of personal security, urging the Corps Members to remain vigilant during their service year.
“Security is a shared responsibility. You must respect the norms and culture of the communities you are posted to and always seek guidance from the NYSC officials, who are here to support you,” he advised.
Mrs. Blessing Ekene Iruma, the State Coordinator, also addressed the Corps Members, welcoming the Director and expressing her pride in the behaviour and discipline of the newly sworn-in Corps Members.
“You have started well, and I believe that you will end well. Continue to abide by the camp rules, and take advantage of all the opportunities available to you,” Iruma said.
With the opening ceremony complete and the camp activities underway, Adegoke’s visit reaffirmed the NYSC’s commitment to the growth and development of the Corps Members, ensuring that they are equipped with the skills, discipline, and mindset needed for success in their service year and beyond.
The orientation camp at Nnamdi Azikiwe NYSC Unity Permanent Orientation Camp Umuawulu/Mbaukwu will continue to serve as a platform for the Corps Members to engage in personal development, skill acquisition, and community integration as they embark on their national service.
