Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta has appealed to the private sector  to invest in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme by sponsoring community development  projects undertaken by corps members.

Oborevwori made the appeal  on Friday at the swearing-in ceremony of the 2024 Batch C, Stream 2, corps members, at the NYSC Orientation Camp, Issele-Uku.

Oborevwori was represented by Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari, the state Commissioner for Higher Education.

He said that the investment would not only improve the living standards of corps members’ host communities but also engage corps members positively.

“My dear corps members, the NYSC, established over four decades ago, has consistently proven its relevance in the development of the nation.

“Its appeal to Nigerian youths remains strong despite challenges, including the contemporary issues of insecurity in some parts of the country.

”I am aware that in response to the challenge of youth unemployment, the NYSC management has introduced the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme to provide opportunities for corps members to acquire skills of their choice,” he said.

The governor urged the corps members to take full advantage of the programme  during their orientation course.

“My administration is committed to supporting NYSC with the necessary resources, encouragement and enabling environment to foster progress in the scheme,” he said.

Oborevwori said that the state government had  sensitised and mobilised all stakeholders, including communities, to prioritise the security and welfare of corps members serving in the state.

“As the orientation camp runs a regimented programme of activities, I urge you to actively participate in all scheduled events.

“Induction into the culture and traditions of the state, citizenship and leadership training, drills and group activities such as sports, are designed to engage and challenge you positively.

“Cooperate fully with camp officials to ensure a smooth and productive orientation course.

“The state government is continuously striving to make this camp more conducive and leave a lasting positive impression on you.”

The governor said that the government was determined to transform the NYSC camp at Issele-Uku into one of the best in terms of capacity and facilities.

“With God on our side and adequate financial resources, we shall achieve this objective,” he said.

He urged corps members to interact harmoniously and freely during the orientation exercise while adhering to the camp’s rules and regulations.

Mr Kingsley Emu, the Secretary to Delta State Government, urged the corps members to adapt  to meet the demands of transition from the ivory towers to a more challenging environment.

“As you brace up to tackle the challenges ahead, I charge you to commit yourselves fully to the demanding physical and psychological training you will undergo during the three-week orientation course.

“The orientation course is designed to prepare you physically, mentally and psychologically for the challenges of the service year.

“Take full advantage of the various skill acquisition programmes offered by the scheme, which are aimed at empowering you with the requisite knowledge and skills to address the challenge of post-service unemployment,” he said.

Mr John Kwaghe, Delta State Coordinator of NYSC, commended the corps members for dedication, discipline and readiness to serve.

He urged them to apply the knowledge and skills they would acquire during their orientation course.

“Your service year presents a unique opportunity to make meaningful contributions to your host communities.

“Serve with humility, diligence and creativity.

“Be exemplary in your roles as teachers and leaders, and strive to impact positively on the lives of those you encounter.

“I also urge you to take full advantage of the SAED post-camp training to further enhance your skills and entrepreneurial potential,” he said.

He thanked Delta State Government for support for the scheme.

“Your promise to provide a 150KVA generator to address the camp’s power supply challenges is highly appreciated.

“We eagerly look forward to its delivery, as the current generator is insufficient to meet the camp’s power needs.

“The perimeter fencing of the camp is also begging for serious attention, as the present one is weak and very low, particularly at the back of the camp,” he said.

He urged community leaders to continue treating corps members as their children, prioritising their welfare and security.

Kwaghe said that a total of 2,159 prospective corps members, comprising 993 males and 1,166 females, had been registered in the camp. (NAN)