Governor Umaru Bago of Niger State emphasized the importance of steering clear of negative activities such as drug abuse, trafficking, cybercrime, and any actions that could tarnish the image of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
He conveyed this message during the closing ceremony of the 2023 Batch B, Stream One orientation course for corps members deployed in the state and those from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The event took place in Paiko Local Government Area of Niger State.
Representing the governor, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Abubakar Usman, urged the corps members to serve as exemplary ambassadors of the NYSC, contributing positively to their communities and upholding the values of the scheme.
“You must remember that being a corps member does not confer on you immunity from the legal consequences of any wrongdoing.
“I, therefore, enjoin you to be law-abiding and serve as role models to younger ones in the communities you are posted to for your primary assignment,” he said.
Bago issued a caution to the corps members, advising them against using social media to promote ethnic prejudices, spread rumors, or engage in hate speech. Instead, he urged them to use social media as a platform for fostering unity and promoting peace across the nation.
Furthermore, he appealed to employers to welcome and treat the corps members fairly, ensuring their welfare needs are adequately met during their service period.
In her address, the NYSC Coordinator in the state, Mrs. Alidat Abdulwahab, encouraged the corps members to accept their postings with a positive mindset and carry out their duties in accordance with the NYSC Act and Bye-laws.
Abdulwahab also advised them to refrain from getting involved in local politics but rather engage in personal and group community development service (CDS) projects to uplift the living standards of their host communities.
She emphasized the importance of being security conscious and avoiding risky behaviors like attending night parties, visiting dangerous places, and accepting rides or gifts from strangers.
