Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has urged corps members deployed to the state to respect the cultural norms and traditions of their host communities.

Mr Oborevwori, represented by the Commissioner for Youth Development, Trakiriowei ThankGod, said this at the closing ceremony of Batch A Stream ll, held at the orientation camp Issele-Uku on Tuesday.

“Throughout this orientation, you have been instilled with core values and leadership attributes, perseverance, discipline, selflessness, teamwork and the ability to live harmoniously with people from diverse backgrounds. There may be slight differences from what they are accustomed to; I implore you to demonstrate tolerance, adaptability and understanding, qualities that embody the spirit of national unity and service.

“As you proceed to your places of primary assignment, I encourage you to remain focused on your responsibility. Resist the lure of anti-social behaviours such as cultism, drug abuse and alcoholism, all of which contradict the ideals of the NYSC and can destroy the values of your service year, including your future. Be mindful of the company you keep. Conduct yourselves with dignity and avoid any words or actions that would incite conflict or disrupt social harmony,” he said.

He urged the corps members to embrace the call to national service with seriousness and patriotism.

He added, “Your attitude throughout the service year will determine not only what you gain from this unique experience but also how much the nation benefits from your contributions. I urge you to draw upon these lessons as you navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead. As leaders of tomorrow, you are expected to be thoughtful, objective and constructive in your views and actions. I appeal to you to be cautious in all your undertakings. This period of newfound freedom may be tempting. I urge you to moderate your enthusiasm and avoid distractions that could derail your future or endanger your lives.’’

The Delta State Coordinator for NYSC, John Kwange, commended the corps members for their exemplary conduct, resilience and discipline demonstrated throughout the three-week orientation programme.

He said, “Your attitude has reflected the highest ideals of the NYSC: patriotism, responsibility, and unity; your comportment has been a source of pride and a signpost to your readiness to serve Nigeria with integrity and loyalty.

“I urge you to approach your postings with open minds and a sense of mission. Embrace your host communities with humility, cultural sensitivity, and respect. As you leave for your places of assignment, I implore you to consider the service year as not just a statutory obligation but a unique opportunity to write your own chapter in the history of our great nation.

“Learn from them and serve them so as to identify their needs and collaborate with stakeholders to execute meaningful projects that would improve lives through your community development service. Be innovative, courageous and compassionate. Let your service reflect the ideas of unity, peace and progress so that you can leave your host communities better than you met them.’’

Mr Kwange urged the corps members to utilise the skills acquired under the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) by initiating their entrepreneurial abilities.

The state coordinator also commended the state government for its continued support of the NYSC scheme, particularly the ongoing infrastructural improvements in the orientation camp.

(NAN)