‘Desist from unauthorized journeys, risky engagements’ -NYSC tell Corp Members
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has warned the Corps members against unauthorized journeys and every risky engagement while serving the nation.
The NYSC Director General, Prof. Shauib Ibrahim gave this warning on Tuesday, during the closing ceremony of the 2021 Batch ‘C’ Stream ‘II’ Orientation Course, at the scheme’s Permanent Site, Old MacGregor College, Afikpo North Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
The DG ably represented by the NYSC State Coordinator, Mrs Bamai Mercy Dawuda, commended the corps members for demonstrating patriotic zeal and high level of discipline, which contributed to the success of their orientation course in the camp.
He informed the corps members that the next phase of their service year is of great significance, as according to him, the entire nation looks up to them for their expected roles in advancing the unity and development of the country.
Ibrahim who expressed joy over the hitch-free exercise recorded during the orientation course, enjoined the Corps members to sustain the spirit of patriotism, hard work and resilience imbibed in the camp at their respective places of primary assignment.
He urged the Corps members to accept their postings in good faith and as well perform their duties with diligence.
He also advised them to appreciate and respect the cultures of the host communities, by adding value to the communities through undertaking personal and group Community Development Service projects that will uplift their living standards.
While encouraging the Corps members to build on the skills acquired in the camp, by availing themselves of opportunities for post-camp training, the NYSC DG reiterated the scheme’s warning against unauthorized journeys and night trips.
“I would like to reiterate our warning against unauthorized journeys and night trips. Statistics by relevant agencies have shown that night travel is a major risk factor for road traffic accident while such timing may also render rescue efforts fruitless. On this premise, it is now mandatory for all Corps members in transit to always cut short their trips from six o’clock in the evening and pass the night at military barracks and other locations officially designated as safe. You are also advised to board vehicles at approved motor parks to avoid falling prey to criminals disguising as commercial vehicle drivers,” he said.
The DG further reaffirmed the commitment of the NYSC management to the security and general welfare of the Corps members, urging them to be security conscious and to shun risky engagements.
“Accordingly, we are in constant liaison with security agencies and other stakeholders with the view of ensuring your safety as well as addressing other essential needs for a fulfilling service year.
“Let me stress, however, that you must be security conscious at all times. In particular, I advise you to avoid risky engagements such as staying out late at night, attendance of late night parties, visitation of dangerous places, and acceptance of car ride from strangers,” he said.
“I also implore you to shun drug abuse and trafficking, cybercrime, advanced-fee-fraud, and other vices. Do also remember that engagement in the local politics of your host communities is a no-go-area for you.
“In all circumstances, always be conscious of the implications of your action or inaction for the image of your families, the NYSC and your institutions of graduation,” Ibrahim advised.
He commended the Corps members for complying with the COVID-19 prevention protocols during their stay in the Camp, saying that ‘the virus is still around.’
He advised the Corps members to continue to be on the guard at all times, and encouraged them to present themselves for the COVID-19 vaccination and, if already taken, to watch out for invitation for the second jab, where applicable.
The DG further charged the Corps members to help in sensitizing members of their host communities about the preventive measures, including the need to accept the vaccines.
He appealed to the Corps employers to not only accept Corps Members that will be posted to them, but also provide the enabling environment, mentorship and imparting leadership skills on them to develop their potentials.
Ibrahim called on state and local government authourities, traditional rulers and other stakeholders to give the necessary encouragement to the Corps members, especially through support for their Community Development Service initiatives.
He equally commended the State Coordinator and other Camp officials for their dedication and team work, which led to the success of the Orientation Course, and expressed confidence that they would sustain the zeal while working collectively to guide and mentor the patriotic youths in the country.
The DG therefore, appreciated the Federal, State and Local governments, security agencies and other aiding organisations for its unwavering support for the Scheme.
The Voice reports that the total of 1,651 Corps members, comprising 805 females and 846 males in the camp, were posted to different locations in the state by the NYSC officials.
