Brigadier-General Yusha’u Ahmed, the Director General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), has emphasised the importance of corps members embracing their deployment locations and contributing to the development of the communities they serve in.
During his visit to the Anambra State orientation camp, where he addressed Batch A Stream 1 corps members at a cultural carnival, General Ahmed urged them to refrain from seeking redeployment and instead focus on settling down and making meaningful contributions to their assigned states.
Highlighting the significance of security, General Ahmed urged corps members to prioritise their safety by adhering to the guidelines provided in their manuals.
He emphasised that while the NYSC is committed to ensuring their security, individuals must also take responsibility for their own safety.
Furthermore, General Ahmed stressed the importance of skill acquisition and entrepreneurial development, encouraging corps members to utilise the programme to become self-reliant and capable of creating employment opportunities for themselves and others after completing their service year.
He cited numerous success stories of former corps members who benefited from government support and private sector collaborations, including interest-free loans, to establish themselves as independent entrepreneurs.
In recognition of the diversity and richness of Nigeria’s cultures, General Ahmed urged corps members to respect the traditions and customs of their host communities.
His call for cultural respect was underscored by his acceptance of a chieftaincy title, Dike Ora I of Umuawulu, conferred upon him by Igwe Joel Egwuonwu, the traditional ruler of the community hosting the orientation camp.
Looking ahead, General Ahmed pledged to continue collaborating with state governments to improve camp facilities and accommodate the growing number of corps members graduating annually, ensuring a conducive environment for their orientation and service activities.
