Niger State Governor Umaru Bago has praised the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) as a vital component in shaping Nigeria’s future. He made this statement during the opening of the 2025 Batch ‘B’ Stream II Orientation Course at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Paiko Local Government. Represented by Dr. Muhammad Makusidi, Permanent Secretary, Special Duties, Office of the SSG, the governor emphasized the importance of the corps members being agents of change and nation-builders.
The NYSC, according to Governor Bago, remains a strong platform for promoting national unity and development. He noted that the scheme has successfully achieved its objectives over the years, including fostering commitment, patriotism, teamwork, integrity, and tolerance among Nigerian graduate youths. The governor encouraged the corps members to take advantage of the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) program at the camp to acquire skills that would make them self-reliant.
Governor Bago emphasized that having a degree is no longer sufficient in today’s job market, and acquiring skills is essential to boost one’s profile. He also encouraged the corps members to leverage the “Digital Literacy for All” campaign, highlighting the importance of technology in driving developed economies. The state government, he assured, would continue to provide an enabling environment for the NYSC scheme to thrive.
Earlier, Martina Shuaibu-Ibrahim, Coordinator of NYSC in Niger, urged the corps members to embrace the SAED as a vital tool for self-reliance. She encouraged them to take the training seriously, given that white-collar jobs are not guaranteed. Mrs. Shuaibu-Ibrahim also advised the corps members to utilize social media responsibly, promoting national unity and development.
The NYSC has been a cornerstone of Nigeria’s national development since its inception, bringing together graduate youths from diverse backgrounds to foster unity and promote national development. With its emphasis on skill acquisition and entrepreneurship, the scheme is well-positioned to empower young Nigerians to contribute meaningfully to the country’s growth and development. As the corps members begin their orientation, they are poised to play a significant role in shaping Nigeria’s future.
