The director-general of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, has urged corps members to respect the culture and traditions of their host communities.

Mr Nafiu said this while addressing corps members during a visit to the NYSC orientation camp in Issele-Uku, Asaba, on Thursday.

He said that respecting and learning the culture and traditions of host communities will enable them to be good ambassadors of the country in the future.

“Most of you have been posted outside your states and geopolitical regions to broaden your understanding of the various cultures and people within the Nigerian federation.

“You should respect the culture of the state, do not disrespect the culture of your host communities, strive to understand and appreciate the cultural values of the state,” he said.

The director-general also urged corps members to respect the rules and regulations guiding the NYSC scheme.

“In NYSC, if you cross the line, you will pay for it; strictly follow the scheme’s guidelines,” he said.

He urged the corps members to cultivate the habit of saving, noting that the government’s grant would not be enough for everyone.

“There are people who will not get the grant, you can save N15,000 every month, and at the end of 10 months, you will get N150,000.

“The remaining N154,000 will be paid in one lump sum, bringing the total to N300,000. You can use it to start a barbering shop or become a seamstress,” he said.

He urged youth corps members to avoid travelling at night to prevent accidents or criminal attacks, adding that the scheme is collaborating with security agencies to keep them safe.

(NAN)