By John Charles
The Director of Corps Welfare and Health Services of the National Youth Service Corps, Omotade Ayodele has charged corps members serving in Benue State to fully engage in the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development SAED programme.
Addressing the corps members when he visited the NYSC orientation camp at Wannune in Tarka Local Government Area of the state on Thursday, Ayodele who charged them to embrace camp activities described SAED as a crucial pathway to financial independence.
The director advised that relying solely on white-collar jobs is not a sustainable means to financial success.
He said, “SAED is your way to say goodbye to poverty and avoid the frustration of carrying files around, saying ‘Good morning, sir.
“It will be a shame if you leave this camp without acquiring a skill that will immensely benefit you.
“White-collar job alone will not make you wealthy. You must explore entrepreneurial opportunities and develop valuable skills to secure your future.”
He stressed the need for corps members to embrace the camp experience, describing it as a “regimented environment designed to instil discipline, patriotism, and personal development.
On the issue of relocation, Ayodele cautioned corps members against trying to manipulate their postings, emphasizing that their placement might serve a greater purpose.
He said, “Do not truncate someone’s destiny just because you want to relocate. You never can tell you may have been posted to Benue for a reason.
“Wherever you find yourself, give your best, because what is worth doing is worth doing well.”
The director reiterated the primary objectives of the NYSC to maintain national unity and integration.
On security, the director advised the corps members to be vigilant and respect the religion, culture, and traditions of their host communities.
“Do not engage in activities that could endanger your life during your service year,” he admonished.
He further advised against late-night travels, reminding them of the organisation’s standing policy, saying, “If you must travel, always use designated motor parks and never travel beyond 6pm. This is a rule designed for your safety.”
In recognition of outstanding contributions to camp life, the Director presented gifts to several groups, including the Quarter Guards, Man ‘O’ War Special Squad, Camp Band, Red Cross Society, OBS Crew, Platoon Leaders, and the Bugler.
He also made significant donations towards the upcoming Platoon Carnival, ensuring that all ten platoons benefited.
Earlier in her speech, the State Coordinator of NYSC, Mrs. Veronica Garba, informed the visiting Director, that the corps members have adjusted to the camp environment, and have since been participating in all activities.
Garba disclosed that a total of 1,925 corps members were registered, comprising 1,022 females and 903 males.
