The Oyo State Coordinator of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Mr. Kayode Ola Peters, has charged Prospective Corps Members (PCMs) deployed to the state for the 2026 Batch ‘B’ Stream II Orientation Course to embrace discipline, patriotism and selfless service as the foundation for a successful national service year.
Speaking at the opening of the orientation programme at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Iseyin, Mr. Peters, who represented the Director General of the NYSC, Brigadier General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, welcomed the corps members to Oyo State, popularly known as the Pacesetter State.
He congratulated the prospective corps members on completing their academic programmes, describing the Orientation Course as the beginning of a transformative journey that will equip them with leadership skills, discipline and the values needed to contribute meaningfully to national development.
According to the State Coordinator, the NYSC Scheme was established in 1973 to promote national unity, integration and reconciliation after the Nigerian Civil War. He noted that the Scheme continues to play a vital role in fostering peaceful coexistence, cultural exchange and lasting friendships among young Nigerians from different parts of the country.
Mr. Peters explained that the NYSC programme is built around four cardinal activities—the Orientation Course, Primary Assignment, Community Development Service (CDS) and the Winding-Up/Passing-Out Parade—each designed to develop disciplined, responsible and development-oriented citizens.
Highlighting the importance of the three-week Orientation Course, he said the exercise combines military drills, physical fitness, leadership training, Man O’ War activities and other regimented programmes aimed at preparing corps members for the demands of the service year.
He also encouraged participants to take advantage of the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme, describing it as an opportunity to acquire practical skills, become self-reliant and create sustainable sources of income after service.
The State Coordinator stressed that discipline remains the hallmark of the NYSC Orientation Camp, warning corps members against misconduct such as theft, insubordination, indecent dressing, misuse of social media and other violations of the NYSC Bye-Laws. He urged them to respect camp officials, uphold the dignity of the NYSC uniform and demonstrate teamwork, leadership and responsible conduct throughout the orientation exercise.
On welfare and security, Mr. Peters assured the corps members that adequate arrangements had been made to ensure a safe and comfortable stay in camp. He disclosed that quality feeding, healthcare services, accommodation, water supply and other essential facilities had been provided, while urging participants to protect government property, maintain environmental cleanliness and remain security conscious.
He further advised the corps members to rely only on official NYSC communication channels, obtain approval before leaving the orientation camp and avoid lobbying for postings or relocation, emphasising that both processes are transparent and free of charge.
The State Coordinator also reminded the prospective corps members that only approved worship centres are permitted within the camp and that participation in the Swearing-In Ceremony is compulsory, as it officially confers the status of corps members on participants.
Mr. Peters concluded by urging the 2026 Batch ‘B’ Stream II corps members to make the most of the Orientation Course, uphold the ideals of discipline, patriotism and national unity, and serve as worthy ambassadors of the NYSC Scheme wherever they are posted.