Emmanuel urges corps members to expunge divisive tendencies

Akpan Umoh, Uyo

Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State has warned corps members serving in the state not to allow divisive tendencies to influence their approach to national issues.

Emmanuel said this in his remarks during the official closing ceremony of 2023 Batch ‘A’ stream II corps members at the National Youth Service Orientation Camp, Ikot Itie Udung in Nsit Atai Local Government Area on Tuesday.

The Governor, who was represented by Mr Emmanuel Akpabio, Director, Youths Development in the Ministry of Youths and Sports, admonished them to guard their minds against negative narratives that will not promote unity and development.

“Distinguished guests, my dear gentlemen Corps Members, Nigeria can only become the country of our dream if we do not allow those divisive tendencies to influence our approach to national issues.

“As future leaders, I encourage you to have big dreams for yourselves and for the country,” Emmanuel said.

Emmanuel urged them to make a mark in their Community Development Service (CDS) programme during their one-year stay in the state.

The governor urged the corps members to endeavour to co-exist mutually with their host communities and refrain from any action that will offend their sensibilities.

He assured corps members that the state government would not shy away from its responsibilities towards their welfare.

In his remarks the NYSC Director-General, Brig.-Gen. Yusha’u Ahmed urged the corps members to build on the skills acquired from the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme to empower themselves and become self-reliant.

Ahmed, who was represented by the State Coordinator of NYSC in Akwa Ibom, Mrs Chinyere Ekwe, said that NYSC Authority would liaise with financial institutions and other stakeholders to provide start-up loans for them to actualise their dreams.

He urged corps members posted to their place of primary assignments to be security conscious at all times and avoid night travels.

“You should avoid acts that can endanger your life such as staying out late, attending night parties, visitation of dangerous places and acceptance of car rides and gifts from strangers.

“On our part, we are committed to making adequate provisions for your security and general welfare in line with the policy thrust of our administration.

“I would like to warn you against unauthorised journeys. If permitted to travel, you must avoid night trips. Travelling at night will not only increase the risk of accidents but also make rescue difficult. 

“You are, therefore, advised to always cut short your trips from 6 pm in the evening and pass the night at NYSC Lodges, military barracks and other locations officially designated as safe,” he said.

He appealed to corps employers to always accept corps members posted to them and make necessary provisions for their welfare.

The director general commended the Federal Government for its unwavering support of the scheme since its inception.

He expressed appreciation to all the state governments, local government areas, security agencies and all stakeholders for their support and contribution to the scheme.