Ambode says NYSC keeps alive dreams of founding fathers

Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State, on Thursday said that the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) had kept alive its founding fathers’ dream of sustained unity and social integration.

Ambode, represented by Mr Oluseye Oladejo, Lagos State Commissioner for Special Duties and Inter Governmental Relations, made the remark at the swearing-in of the 2018 Batch C, Stream I corps members, at the NYSC Orientation Camp, Iyana-Ipaja, Lagos.

He advised the corps members to internalise the content of the national pledge and strive to live in accordance with the oath of allegiance they swore to.

“It is in so doing that you will be propelled to sustain the worthy feat your predecessors have achieved for over 45 years of the scheme’s existence.

“The government and good people of Lagos State warmly welcome you to the nation’s centre of excellence and are pleased to have you in our midst as vibrant agents of grassroots development,” he said.

“I enjoin you to take all aspects of the orientation course very seriously as it has been uniquely structured to prepare you for the service year and beyond.

“I enjoin you to always reflect on the successes the scheme has recorded in the sustenance of national unity, integration, and economic development since inception,” he said.

The governor charged the corps members to contribute meaningfully to the service through commitment, dedication and active participation in all activities.

The Chief Judge of Lagos State, Justice Opeyemi Oke, administered the oath of allegiance to the 2,573 corps members.

Oke was represented by Justice B.A Oke-Lawal.

The state Coordinator of NYSC, Mr Mohammed Momoh, said that the 2,573 corps members comprised 1,198 males and 1,375 females.

Momoh said that the three-week orientation would be characterised by para-military drills, lectures and leadership, skills and entrepreneurship training.

“I wish to report that at the end of registration, a total of 2,573 corps members made up of 1,198 males and 1,375 females were registered and are ready to be sworn-in for the national service.

“I am highly elated to report that these young and vibrant patriots have shown their allegiance and readiness to serve the nation by quickly adjusting to the regimented lifestyle.

“My dear prospective corps members, let me use this medium to inform you that the camp life is regimented and governed by rules and regulations. All activities are expected to be conducted in a timely manner.

“Discipline and good time management should be your watchword throughout the period of the orientation course,” he said.

Momoh urged the corps members to actively and passionately participate in all camp activities as they would prepare them for success in the service year.