By Nelson Utip
Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has called on the Indigenes of the state to embrace Corps members posted to the State, assist them in settling down, and teach them the language and culture of their host communities, The governor stated this during the 2024 Batch B, Stream 2 closing ceremony held at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Boro Town, Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area of the state.
Governor Diri was represented by the Executive Assistant to the Governor on NYSC Matters, Dr Wisdom Poyeri, who assured the Corps members of their welfare and security, adding that the people of the state are hospitable and accommodating.
The governor urged the Corps members to take advantage of the abundant opportunities in the state to showcase their innovation and creativity as the state will offer them opportunities to excell.
He told them to take advantage of the opportunities in the state to serve the nation, develop themselves, and impact their host communities, while advising them to be bold and innovative during and after the service year. He reminded them that the service year in Bayelsa is not merely to fulfill a requirement but to make a lasting impact calling on them to be role models to youths, students, and pupils of the state by mentoring them to be responsible citizens and future leaders.
The State Coordinator of NYSC, Mrs. Okpalifo Obiageli-Charity used the occasion to commended the corps members and camp officials for synergy and discipline that ensured a hitch-free orientation course, she admonished the corps members to report to their places of primary assignment promptly, while charging them to settle down, render quality service to the nation in the state, and leave positive indelible marks in their respective host communities.
The coordinator admonished the Corpers to adapt to their new environment and be security conscious, she advised them against night travels, travelling across waterways without lifejackets and negative use of the social media.
She assured of a reward system put in place by the Bayelsa State government and The NYSC for Corpers who distinguished themselves during the service year, enjoining them to place national interest above tribal and sectional sentiments so as to put Nigeria on the steady path of development.
Obiageli-Charity was full of praises for the Bayelsa State government for its commitment to the welfare and security of the corps members, while appreciating collaborating partners and camp officials for their team spirit and commitment throughout the period of the orientation program.
She urged employers of the Corpers and traditional rulers in the state to provide secure and decent accommodation for corps members.
