Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps, Brig.-Gen. YD Ahmed, has advised corps members to take advantage of the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development programme of the corps.

Mr Ahmed made the call during a working visit to the permanent orientation camp of the Anambra State branch of the scheme, on the occasion of their cultural carnival on Saturday.

He said the Federal Government, through the NYSC, had an agreement with corporate organisations to provide zero interest loans to corps members with bankable proposals.

“This is unprecedented because there’s nowhere one can borrow money and return it without interest. So, take advantage of the SAED programme which enables you to be self-reliant,” he said.

The DG, who was conferred with the chieftaincy title of Dikeora I of NYSC, Anambra, told the corps members to be prepared for wherever they would be posted to for their primary assignment.

He said Anambra was safe and the people accommodating, urging them to respect the culture and ways of the people of their host communities.

According to him, they should not waste their time asking for relocation out of the state. 

“The state is peaceful and the people are loving. Be peaceful, resilient and ready to contribute to the progress of the community you were posted to. Take your security seriously, apply the tips in the pamphlet you are given and the orientation you have received,” he said.

On her part, Coordinator of the NYSC in Anambra State,Ekene Iruma, said a total of 1,532 corps members, comprising 694 males and 838 females, registered for the 2024 Batch ‘A’ Stream 11 in the state.

Mrs Iruma said the camp was peaceful and camp officials worked as a team to achieve success in the orientation course.

“I am pleased to inform the DG that since the installation of CCTV cameras and the repair of the collapsed fence, this camp has been enjoying a safe and secure environment.  The enhanced security measures have contributed to the overall safety and wellbeing of our corps members and staff. Your support, in implementing these improvements, is highly appreciated.

“We cherish your coming to be a blessing to us. As we are basking in the euphoria of your visit, we assure you we will make you proud,” she said.

Conferring the title on the visiting DG, Igwe Joel Egwuonwu of Umuawulu, one of the host communities, said they were pleased with what Mr Ahmed was doing for the scheme.

He prayed for the DG and extended the good wishes of the people of Anambra to him.

Ten major cultural areas in Nigeria were represented by the 10 platoons who competed in culture displays, egg race, fastest kit-up and other games.

(NAN)