The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) marks its almost fifty years of existence amidst a non-denominational thanksgiving service that took place at the National Christian Centre in Abuja. Reverend Mike Agbon, who oversaw the service as the Chaplain in Charge of Sunday Service, called on Nigerians to support and rally around the NYSC to fortify its extensive achievements in almost fifty years.
The cleric praised General Yakubu Gowon, under whose administration the NYSC was created, for promoting the consciousness of nationhood and patriotic spirit among youths over the years. He urged Nigerian leaders to prioritize the future of the country’s youths and strive to maintain Nigeria’s value system.
Reverend Agbon further stated that the NYSC should be the topmost priority of all Nigerians since it lays the foundation for the future.
“Many of our leaders are products of NYSC. Great is the work of NYSC in how it has impacted our society through inter-cultural affinity. We need to come together and combat the challenges facing our nation. We should be more concerned about the future of our youths, we need to stand and work together as one,” Agbon urged.
He also warned against the disappearing value system in Nigeria and encouraged corpers to live purposeful lives with vision. The service had in attendance an ex-Corps member and a former Governor of Adamawa State, James Nggilari, members of the 50th Anniversary Committee, NYSC Directors, Staff, Corps members, among others.
As part of the thanksgiving service, the Officiating Minister prayed for continued success in the Scheme’s activities while people sang delightful songs with lyrics that filled the atmosphere.
In addressing the congregation, the NYSC Director General, Brigadier General YD Ahmed, represented by the Director, ICT, Mrs Christy Uba, revealed that the NYSC has weathered all storms since its inception, which makes it a great institution of learning. He added that over six million youths have passed through the scheme with a majority, still contributing to the growth and progress of the country in their chosen careers.
With almost fifty years of growth, the NYSC has become a significant institution in Nigeria that has contributed immensely to national unity through its schemes, including Community Development Service, Orientation Course, Place of Primary Assignment, among others.
