Delta Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has urged corps members to distinguish themselves by making indelible contributions to sustainable development and providing innovative solutions to the needs of their host communities.

Mr Oborevwori said this on Friday at the swearing-in/opening ceremony of Batch B Stream II of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) deployed to the state at the orientation camp in Issele-Uku.

Mr Oborevwori, who was represented by the commissioner for special projects, Funvei Manager, urged them to demonstrate ingenuity and diligence in their assigned duties.

“Over the years, the NYSC has come to represent an enduring vehicle for national unity, as well as a platform for instilling in our youths the values of good citizenship and leadership.

“As young people, you are not just the leaders of tomorrow, but indeed leaders of today. This places enormous responsibility on your shoulders.

“It is therefore imperative that you cultivate positive mindsets and attitudes towards the sustainable development of our dear country.

“You can only achieve this if you fully embrace the enduring lessons and values that will be imparted to you during the orientation exercise,” he said.

Mr Oborevwori said the NYSC remains pivotal to the quest for meaningful national integration and sustainable development, as demonstrated by the invaluable contributions of corps members in different sectors across the nation.

“The scheme continues to promote ideals such as dedicated service to the nation, constructive engagement, patriotism, equity, justice, the fear of God, and an unwavering commitment to the common good.

“You will undergo paramilitary drills and exercises that are designed to build your resilience, discipline, and team spirit—qualities necessary for effective and productive participation in the ongoing efforts to accelerate national development,” he said.

He urged corps members to be assured that the state is safe and peaceful, with hospitable people who will warmly welcome them.

“However, given the general security challenges in the country, I advise you to remain vigilant at all times and avoid bad company. As a government, we are committed to your safety and well-being,” he said.

John Kwange, the Delta State coordinator of NYSC, commended the state governor for his people-oriented administration and steadfast support for the NYSC.

“We are particularly appreciative of the ongoing infrastructural interventions at the Orientation Camp, especially the approval for commencement of reconstruction of the fallen camp perimeter fence.

“This project, when completed, will not only enhance the security of the camp but also protect critical government investment from persistent vandalisation, which has been a frequent occurrence in recent times,” he said.

He, however, wished to draw the attention of the governor to other pressing challenges that continue to affect the smooth implementation of their programmes.

“The immediate commencement and completion of the perimeter fence project, which has been approved, to forestall vandalization of our facilities.

“Provision of an ambulance for our Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers (HIRD) programme. Allocation of an official vehicle for the state coordinator.

“We are confident that, with Your Excellency’s track record of excellence and passion for youth development, these challenges will soon receive the desired attention,” he said.

Mr Kwange urged corps members to remain law-abiding throughout the orientation course.

“I urge you to strictly adhere to camp rules and regulations, and to seize every opportunity to develop yourselves for effective service to our great nation,” he added.

He said a total of 1,532 prospective corps members, comprising 678 males and 854 females, were duly registered.

(NAN)