By Rotimi Famakin

Corps members have been encouraged to see the challenges facing Nigeria as stepping stones to greatness, rather than reasons for discouragement.

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, advised while declaring open the 2026 Batch A Stream Two orientation course of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, at the Permanent Orientation Camp in Iseyin.

Represented by the Director of Youth in the Ministry of Youth Development, Alhaja Kudirat Mustapha, the governor noted that the nation’s current challenges require the collective creativity, energy, and resilience of corps members to drive progress and national development.

“Gentlemen, corps members, you are beginning your service year at a time when our nation needs your energy, creativity, and resilience more than ever before. Nigeria’s challenges are real, but so are the opportunities. I urge you not to see this service year merely as a statutory obligation, but as a unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully to nation-building, develop leadership skills, and positively impact the communities where you will serve.”

Governor Makinde emphasized that the NYSC scheme, since its establishment in 1973, has remained a vital instrument for fostering unity, promoting national integration, and bridging ethnic, religious, and cultural divides.

He also urged corps members to take full advantage of the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme to become self-reliant.

“I encourage you to embrace the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme wholeheartedly. Acquire skills that will make you self-reliant, innovative, and economically empowered beyond your service year. The future belongs to those who are prepared, and this programme is designed to prepare you for life after NYSC.”

The governor further assured corps members of their safety and welfare throughout their service year, noting that Oyo State remains hospitable and peaceful.

“Oyo State is known for its rich history, hospitality, cultural diversity, and peaceful coexistence. We have deliberately created an enabling environment for corps members to live, work, and serve safely. I assure you that our administration will continue to prioritize your welfare, security, and well-being throughout your service year.”

Earlier, the Oyo State Coordinator of the NYSC, Mr Kayode Ola-Peters, disclosed that, through deliberate engagement and the commitment of Governor Makinde, the 4,000-capacity multipurpose hall at the Iseyin Orientation Camp has been tiled.

Mr Ola-Peters added that the current Stream Two exercise represents not only the continuation of the orientation programme but also a renewed commitment to achieving the 2026 Batch ‘A’ theme: “Revamping the Orientation Course Experience as a Platform for Impactful Service by Corps Members.”

He explained that this vision has challenged NYSC in the state “to reimagine the Orientation Course as more than a routine exercise. It is a deliberate and strategic foundation upon which you will build a year of relevance, innovation, and impactful service across communities.” 

Mr Ola-Peters said 3,026 corps members comprising 1, 217 males and 1,809 females have so far been registered, while 451 other corps members representing 188 males and 263 females were dislodged to the Iseyin Permanent Orientation Camp for the exercise.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

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