Gombe assures 1,203 corps members of safety

The Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Yahaya, on Friday, assured no fewer than 1,203 Batch A Stream II corps members deployed to the state safety.

Yahaya, represented by Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Abubakar Musa, made this assurance in his address shortly after the swearing-in of the graduates, ahead of the three-week mandatory orientation exercise at the temporary orientation camp in Amada, Akko Local Government Area of Gombe.

Our correspondent reports that the participants comprised 741 males and 462 females sworn in by Justice Mohammed Kumo on behalf of the Chief Judge of Gombe Justice Halima Mohammed.

According to the governor, the state has fashioned strong-proof security architecture to secure residents and visitors in the state, stressing that there was no reason to be frightened.

He said, “At this point, I wish to reiterate the commitment of my administration to the security and welfare of Corps Members. This became necessary considering their dedication and selfless service in the nooks and crannies of the state. We have built a formidable security saddled with the responsibility of keeping inhabitants safe at all times.

“I, therefore, allay every fear about the state, relax and carry out your national assignment without fear and apprehension.”

While lauding the scheme, the governor appreciated the contributions of corps members in the development of the state adding, “through initiative for rural dwellers, environmental sanitation and the skill acquisition and entrepreneurship development among others. It is pertinent to know how you will make a positive impact on your host communities.

“The National Youth Service Corps established by General Yakubu Gowon has become a household name after 50 years, it has become a strong tool for national development and unity through the involvement of corps members in programmes.”

On her part, the State Coordinator of NYSC, Ada Imoni, commended the participants, while noting their involvement would yield the needed development in the country.

“For making it on board the ship of service at this historic moment that the scheme is at the verge of celebrating its 50th anniversary, come May 22, 2023. There is no gainsaying the fact that Youths play a very important role in the development of our dear nation. It is heart-warming, therefore, to have you here with us as we prepare for our golden jubilee,” she said.

Imoni also urged them to give their best, despite the challenges, adding “Let me remind the 2023 Batch ‘A' Stream II Corps members that the Orientation course; the first of the four cardinal programmes of the NYSC has been packaged to equip you with mental and intellectual skills in order to enable you to contribute your quota to nation building. I must however remind you that the orientation course is regimented, devoid of the luxuries you are accustomed to in your homes and Institutions of higher learning. I appeal to you, therefore, to make judicious use of Camp facilities bearing in mind that it is a temporary facility.”