Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has promised to provide adequate security and better welfare packages for members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) serving in the State, saying none of them would fall victim of kidnapping, banditry and senseless killing.
Oyebanji gave the assurance, on Wednesday, at the State NYSC Orientation Camp, Ise/Emure/Orun, during the swearing-in ceremony of 2023 BATCH ‘C’ STREAM 1, Corps members deployed to Ekiti State.
The Governor, who spoke through the Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr. Gold Adedayo, reiterated the commitment of the State government to the welfare of the youth corps members, as strategic partners in development.
Oyebanji promised to sustain the cordial working relationship between his government and the management of NYSC in the State, saying this can only be achieved if he places premium priority on welfare and security of youth corps members.
He urged the corps members to place the unity of Nigeria over personal interest, adding that the scheme which has continued to grow in leaps and bounds since its creation 50 years ago.
“My government will place priority on your welfare and security. We know the economic situation of our country now and the level of insecurity. We owe it a duty to protect your lives wherever you are posted to for your one year service in Ekiti.
“NYSC is a valuable federal government policy that had re-tailored the minds of many Nigerians to sustain its mandate of mobilising the educated segment of Nigerian Youths for patriotic, loyal and selfless service in any situation they find themselves”.
The Governor enjoined the corps members to be steadfast in their personal and group efforts towards the realisation of the noble objectives of the scheme.
He promised to reward any corps member who exhibited hardwork, dedication and commitment to duty being part of the process to promote patriotism and quality service to Nigeria.
“Ekiti government had always recognized excellence and the outstanding achievements of Corps members by honouring members who made great contributions to the development of the State.
“Whatever sacrifices you make to better the lots of your host communities will never go unacknowledged with the prestigious State Honour Award”.
Governor Oyebanji appealed to the corps members to take full advantage of routine NYSC activities such as Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) at both the camp and in their places of primary assignment to acquire live long skills that make them self sufficient employed.
The NYSC State Coordinator, Alhaji Riko Abdullahi Shu’aibu had enumerated the responsibility of the State government to include, annual subvention to cater adequately for the welfare of Corps members deployed to the State and provision of needed facilities to enhance their jobs.
Riko highlighted their request to include; Increment of state allowances, Improved Infrastructures at the orientation camp, establishment of ATM point and Multipurpose Hall at the camp.