Brigadier General Y. D. Ahmed, the Director General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), has cautioned corps members in Abia State against engaging in frequent, unnecessary travels and night journeys that may jeopardize their safety.
He issued this warning on Sunday, December 8, 2024, while addressing the 2024 Batch C Stream I Corps Members during his visit to the Umunna Bende NYSC Orientation Camp in Abia State. Speaking at the camp’s multipurpose hall, the NYSC DG emphasized the importance of prioritizing safety and adhering to travel protocols, urging corps members to obtain proper permissions before traveling and to only use registered transport companies when necessary.
Highlighting the importance of security, General Ahmed advised the corps members to pay close attention to the security lectures and other instructions provided during the orientation. He assured them that their safety and welfare remain paramount to the NYSC, noting that corps members would not be posted to areas with known security risks.
Addressing the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) program, the NYSC DG underscored its purpose of equipping corps members for life after the service year.
He disclosed ongoing partnerships with financial institutions to provide interest-free loans and grants for corps members to launch business startups.
He encouraged them to use their service year to reflect on their future and acquire valuable skills.
Furthermore, General Ahmed urged corps members to embrace their postings, contribute positively to their host communities, and actively participate in Community Development Service (CDS) projects.
He highlighted the potential rewards of CDS, including the prestigious Presidential Award, which offers automatic employment.
He also advised corps members to respect the cultural norms and traditions of their host communities.
In her earlier remarks, the Abia State Coordinator for NYSC, Mrs. Gladys Adama, announced that the state government had commenced rehabilitation of the orientation camp, further ensuring a conducive environment for corps members.
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