Akwa Ibom state Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has advised corps members deployed to the state not to join individuals who tarnish Nigeria’s image.
Eno gave the advice during the swearing-in ceremony of the 2024 Batch B Stream 2 Corps Members at the NYSC Orientation Camp, Ikot Itieudong, Nsit Atai LGA, on Friday.
Represented by Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth and Sport Development, Mrs. Rose Bassey, the governor urged corps members to emulate patriotic citizens and work towards making Nigeria a better place
Eno noted that the NYSC has been at the forefront of promoting unity, oneness, and integration in Nigeria.
He encouraged corps members to continue building across boundaries, knowing that people look up to them to give the country a new lease of life.
He told the Corp Members that being the stakeholders in the Nigerian project, they should rise above linguistics, religious, ethnic and socio-cultural boundaries.
“My dear gentlemen Corps Members, the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, Which just celebrated it’s 51 years anniversary had been in the forefront for the campaigns for the unity, oneness and integration of Nigeria.
“As stakeholders in the Nigerian project, it is incumbent on you to continue the building process across linguistics, religious, ethnic and socio-cultural boundaries knowing full well that people out there are looking up to you to give the country a new lease of life and fresh breadth.
“Do not follow the people whose stock in trade so to cause disaffection across ethnic and religious divides thereby tarnishing the image of Nigeria in the commity of nations.
“Follow the part of well meaning personalities and patriotic citizens to make Nigeria a better place for all and sundry,” he said.
The Governor assured corps members that the state government will provide opportunities for them to contribute to the state’s development and pledged to secure their lives and properties.
On his part, the Commissioner of Youth and Sport Development, Sir Monday Uko tasked the corps members to embark on community development projects to impact the lives of the rural dwellers positively.
Uko represented by his Director of Administration in the Ministry, Mrs Esther Udosen advised the corps members to avoid the pre-conceived notions about that state and focus on the brighter side of life.
Responding, the State Coordinator of NYSC, Mr Okun Christopher appealed to the state government to help in revamping the deliapidated hotel blocks in the camp and provide a befitting multi-purpose hall.
Christopher represented by Mrs. Chinwe Nnegha urged the corp members to remain disciplined and abide by the rules and regulations in the camp.