The Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology, Igboora, has reassured graduates from the Faculty of Management who have experienced delays in their mobilisation for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) that the issue will be resolved soon.

In a statement released on Sunday, the college’s Public Relations Officer, Olawore Opeyemi, quoted the Rector, Prof. Akinola Akinlabi, explaining that the delay in accrediting some programs was due to the COVID-19 lockdown. The lockdown prevented the previous administration from inviting the supervising body for polytechnics in Nigeria to visit the institution for accreditation.

Under Akinlabi’s leadership, the new management successfully secured accreditation from the National Board for Technical Education for the Higher National Diploma programs in the Faculty of Management. Efforts are ongoing to address the issues caused by the delayed accreditation.

The rector noted that since 2014, students of the college have enjoyed prompt and regular mobilisation for the NYSC scheme.

“The rector revealed that students of Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology, Igboora, since 2014 had been enjoying prompt and regular mobilisation for the National Youth Service Corps Scheme,” the statement read.

He urged the affected students to be patient, assuring them that the management’s efforts will soon yield positive results.

Prof. Akinlabi also emphasized the management’s commitment to ensuring prompt accreditation of the institution’s programs. He mentioned that between June 3 and 5, 2024, the NBTE visited the institution for resource inspection of 13 programs and institutional accreditation.

He promised to keep stakeholders updated as the management continues to work towards resolving the issue.

Prince Oluyemi Joshua Ibiloye, the State Commandant of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Ondo State, has reminded corps members that the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) is a disciplined organization that does not tolerate negative behaviors.

Addressing the 2024 Batch ‘B’ (Stream 1) corps members at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Ikare-Akoko, Ibiloye highlighted that some youths may bring unruly behaviors from home or school, but such conduct will not be accepted in the NYSC.

The NSCDC Commandant, a Kwara-born royal officer, emphasized that their mandate, along with other security agencies, is to protect lives and properties. He warned that any violation of the law will be dealt with accordingly.

Drawing from his own NYSC experience in Kebbi during the 1997/98 service year, Ibiloye advised corps members to use this period as an opportunity for self-discovery. He reassured them of their safety in Ondo State, known for its peaceful environment, and praised the experienced security heads in the state.

As the 20th NSCDC boss to lead the Ondo State command, Ibiloye reminded corps members that the NYSC was established to promote unity and integration among Nigeria’s diverse tribes and ethnic groups. He urged them to avoid cybercrimes and other vices, emphasizing their role as future leaders.

In his welcome address, State Coordinator Mr. Sam Amaramiro Pepple congratulated the corps members and addressed any misconceptions about the state. He highlighted the recent visits of key security chiefs, including the Brigade Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade, the Commissioner of Police, and the NSCDC State Commandant, as a demonstration of the commitment to the NYSC scheme in Ondo.

Pepple expressed gratitude for Ibiloye’s visit, describing it as a morale booster for the corps members. He assured that the corps members are patriotic and dedicated to upholding the objectives of the NYSC.

Members of the Batch B, Stream 1, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Niger State erupted in celebration as Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago announced a largesse of N200,000 for each of the 1,600 corps members serving in the state.

In addition to this generous financial support, the Governor also pledged 20 cows and a trailer load of rice to cater to the welfare of the corps members during their orientation period.

Furthermore, Governor Bago revealed the allocation of N5 billion for the construction of a new NYSC camp. He also committed to providing a monthly stipend of N500,000 to any corps member who chooses to pursue farming in the state after their service, emphasizing his administration’s substantial investment in mechanized agriculture to attract youth into the sector.

The Governor stated that these initiatives aim to motivate corps members to serve diligently and consider remaining in Niger State post-service.

During the NYSC Batch B, Stream 1 orientation ceremony at the temporary camp in Paikoro, Governor Bago said, “There are 1,600 corps members in this batch. Each of you will receive N200,000 to ensure your comfortable stay in Niger State. This is to demonstrate the prosperity of our state and to ensure you enjoy your service here.”

Governor Bago also announced plans to enhance the temporary camp’s facilities, including constructing more toilets and drilling five boreholes.

Additionally, the Governor promised automatic employment for corps members in the medical and health fields who are willing to work in the state, aiming to bolster healthcare delivery services across Niger State.

In her speech, Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, disclosed federal government plans to empower 5,000 NYSC members with up to N10 million each for entrepreneurial ventures, including agriculture and technology, after their service year. She emphasized the importance of using the service year to build a strong foundation for the future and develop a well-rounded skill set.

Brigadier General Yusha’u Ahmed, the Director General of the National Youth Service Corps, expressed gratitude to Governor Bago for his support and urged other governors to follow his example in encouraging the youth.

NYSC to Mobilize 103,000 Prospective Corps Members for Orientation Exercise

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has announced the commencement of the 2024 Batch ‘A’ Stream Two Orientation Course, scheduled to begin nationwide on Wednesday, 17th April 2024. A record-breaking 103,000 Prospective Corps Members (PCMs) have been registered for this exercise.

The orientation course, a longstanding tradition in Nigeria, is designed to prepare recent graduates for national service and integration, equipping them with the necessary skills and mindset.

In a statement released on Monday night by Eddy Megwa, the Director of Press and Public Relations for NYSC, the management emphasized the importance of the orientation exercise in promoting unity and development across the country.

To manage the large number of registrants, NYSC officials have opted for a strategic approach, mobilizing PCMs in Batches and Streams. This decision aims to decongest the orientation camps and ensure a conducive environment for all participants.

Addressing those who registered but were not selected for the upcoming exercise, Megwa assured them of their inclusion in the June 2024 Orientation Exercise, urging them to anticipate their call-up letters.

Brigadier General YD Ahmed, the Director General of NYSC, conveyed his best wishes to all PCMs embarking on this journey, emphasizing the significance of this phase in their lives. He encouraged them to stay informed through NYSC’s Social Media Handles and traditional media outlets for updates regarding the Orientation Course.

As the country continues to navigate the digital age, the NYSC is committed to providing timely and relevant information to PCMs and the public through various communication channels.