The Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has urged corp members deployed for national service to the state to explore the opportunities the state offers.
He also charged the corp members to see Bayelsa as a new home, assuring that the state is not only peaceful but very secured.
The governor disclosed this while presiding over the opening/swearing-in ceremony of 2024 Batch B, Stream II corps members at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Boro Town, Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area of the state.
He told the corp members that the best decision they will ever make will be settling down in the state to serve rather than relocating to another state.
Diri, who was represented by his Executive Assistant on NYSC Matters, Dr. Wisdom Poyeri congratulated them for successful completion of their academic programmes and described them as patriots on national assignment.
He said: "Bayelsa State is rich in culture and natural resources,and the resilience of its people is inspiring. I encourage you to immerse yourselves in the unique traditions and experiences that our state has to offer. Use this period to learn, grow and forge meaningful connections that will enrich both your personal and professional development.
"Your service here will not only be beneficial to the people of Bayelsa, but will also equip you with invaluable skills and experiences that will serve you well as you transit into the next phase of your lives.
"I challenge you to be agent of change, to identify and address the needs of your host communities,and to be shining examples of the calibre of youths our nation can produce."
He further expressed gratitude to the NYSC for the commitment in fostering unity and national integration as well as the pivotal role in shaping the lives of the young graduates by instilling in them the virtues of discipline, patriotism and selfless service to the nation.
He reminded them that as representatives of their home states and the Federal Republic of Nigeria, they should carry themselves with dignity, integrity and deep sense of responsibility as well as uphold the core values of the NYSC programme.
The Bayelsa Chief Executive reaffirmed the commitment of his administration to the welfare of the corps members in providing necessary support and assistance to ensure a fruitful and memorable service year.
According to him, he will be looking forward to the day that those who will distinguish themselves during the service year will be recognized and honoured during the winding up /closing ceremony.
Earlier in her remarks, the State Coordinator of the NYSC, Mrs Okpalifo Obiageli Charity highlighted the objectives of the orientation course and advised corps members to embrace the service year with all the seriousness it deserves
She also enjoined them to shun all forms of social vices and actions detrimental to the image of the scheme during the orientation course and in their various places of primary assignments.
She also thanked Governor Diri for his continuous and immense support to the NYSC.
Highlights of the event were the administration of national and NYSC Pledges on 1, 861 corps members by the State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Maltida Abrakasa Ayemieye and tug of war special demonstration by the corps members.
