Brig.-Gen. Yusha’u Ahmed, the Director-General of the National Youths Service Corps (NYSC), has called on the Kaduna State Government to construct a suitable orientation camp for corps members in the state. He made this appeal during the opening ceremony of the 2023 Batch ‘B’ pre-orientation course workshop held in Kaduna.
The workshop focused on the theme “Repositioning the NYSC orientation course in the post-golden Jubilee era for effective national service.” It aimed to discuss and devise strategies to enhance the NYSC orientation course, taking into account the changing needs and dynamics of national service.
During his address, Brig.-Gen. Yusha’u Ahmed emphasized the importance of providing a befitting orientation camp for corps members in Kaduna State. He highlighted the significance of a well-equipped and conducive camp environment in facilitating the smooth integration and effective training of corps members.
The appeal to the Kaduna State Government underscores the need for adequate infrastructure and facilities that can cater to the growing number of corps members and ensure their comfort, safety, and optimal learning experience during the orientation course.
By repositioning the NYSC orientation course, the aim is to align it with contemporary challenges and opportunities, allowing corps members to develop essential skills, values, and knowledge for effective national service.
The workshop provided a platform for stakeholders to share ideas, review existing practices, and propose innovative approaches to enhance the impact and relevance of the orientation course in the post-golden Jubilee era of the NYSC. It reflected a commitment to continuous improvement and adaptation to meet the evolving needs of Nigerian youth in their quest for national service and personal development.
The NYSC permanent orientation camp in Kaduna State is currently situated in Sabon Gaya, along the Kaduna-Abuja highway, on the outskirts of the state. However, due to safety and security concerns, the camp has been temporarily relocated to Government College, Kurmin Mashi.
Brig.-Gen. Yusha’u Ahmed emphasized the significance of the orientation camp, as it serves as the first point of contact for corps members and leaves a lasting impression about the state. He stressed that besides its impact on the welfare of participants and the overall success of the orientation course, the camp also contributes to the perception of the state among corps members.
The pre-orientation course workshop provided a platform for key officials of the NYSC and its partner agencies to assess the effectiveness of previous orientation courses and devise strategies for enhanced performance. The workshop aimed to foster collaboration and engagement with critical stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the 2023 Batch ‘B’ orientation course.
The NYSC Director-General expressed the commitment of the organization to work closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure the smooth running and positive outcomes of the upcoming orientation course. By reviewing past practices and engaging in strategic planning, the NYSC aims to continually improve the experience and impact of the orientation program on the corps members’ personal and professional development.
Brig.-Gen. Yusha’u Ahmed emphasized the importance of the pre-orientation course workshop, stating that it would result in significant resolutions and the issuance of policy guidelines to ensure the seamless execution of the orientation exercise. The workshop aimed to address key areas and challenges and provide clear directives for the smooth conduct of the program.
The Director-General expressed his gratitude for the consistent support and contributions of the Kaduna State Government towards the success of NYSC operations within the state. He expressed confidence that the new administration would continue to sustain this support, which plays a vital role in facilitating the effective functioning of the NYSC.
Furthermore, the Director-General urged other stakeholders to maintain their commitment to the NYSC, emphasizing that the organization is dedicated to transforming graduate youths into valuable contributors to national development. By instilling values of patriotism, leadership, and service, the NYSC aims to shape the character and skills of young graduates, enabling them to positively impact the nation.
The call for continued collaboration and support from stakeholders underscores the importance of collective efforts in nurturing and empowering the youth for the betterment of society.
Brig.-Gen. Yusha’u Ahmed extended his gratitude to the Federal Government for its unwavering support, particularly in the timely release of funds for the smooth operations of the NYSC. He also expressed appreciation to other state governments, security agencies, traditional rulers, and various stakeholders for their immense support in advancing the objectives of the NYSC.
Earlier in the event, Hajiya Hadiza Balarabe, the state Deputy Governor, highlighted the significant contributions of corps members to the nation. She acknowledged their invaluable services in areas such as healthcare delivery, education, and skills acquisition. Balarabe emphasized that the lives of millions of corps members have been positively transformed through their primary assignments in diverse communities across the country. In turn, the corps members have made meaningful impacts and contributions within those communities.
This acknowledgment further underscores the positive influence of corps members on societal development. Their selfless service in critical sectors and their active involvement in community development initiatives have undoubtedly made a difference in the lives of many Nigerians. The recognition of their efforts by the state government reflects the importance of their role in nation-building and the appreciation for their commitment and dedication to serving the nation.
Hajiya Hadiza Balarabe emphasized the continued relevance and necessity of the NYSC scheme while acknowledging the importance of keeping it updated to align with current realities. She highlighted that an inter-ministerial committee was established to thoroughly assess the operations of the scheme and provide recommendations for improvements and sustainability.
The deputy governor expressed appreciation for the NYSC’s commitment to restructuring and re-engineering its operations in order to adapt to the demands of modern times. This proactive approach demonstrates the scheme’s responsiveness to the evolving needs and aspirations of Nigerian youth, as well as its dedication to ensuring the effectiveness and efficiency of its programs.
By recognizing the need for continuous improvement and embracing necessary changes, the NYSC is positioned to better serve the nation and contribute to the personal and professional development of corps members. The commendation from the deputy governor affirms the importance of enhancing the scheme’s operations to meet the evolving needs of Nigerian youth and maximize the impact of their service on national development.