By Amgbare Ekaunkumo, Yenagoa
Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri has assured 1,950 National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members deployed to the state of a safe and supportive environment, urging them to embrace Bayelsa’s opportunities to enhance their personal and professional growth during their service year. Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony for the 2025 Batch B, Stream II corps members on Friday at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Boro Town, Governor Diri, represented by his Executive Assistant on NYSC Matters, Dr. Wisdom Poyeri, described their deployment to Bayelsa as a “divine opportunity to achieve greatness.”“Your presence here is no coincidence but a purposeful plan to position you for success in the glory of all lands,” the governor said.
He highlighted Bayelsa’s fertile ground for creativity and enterprise, encouraging corps members to tap into the state’s abundant opportunities to become “better and richer versions of themselves.” He also commended them for their academic excellence and moral character, which earned them a place in the NYSC scheme. “You are among the vibrant youths found worthy in character and learning to serve our nation,” Diri noted, emphasizing that their discipline, integrity, and patriotism would shape both their reputations and future prospects.
The governor urged the corps members to view challenges as opportunities for growth and to make meaningful contributions to their host communities. “Every great achievement begins with a single step. This service year is a foundation to learn from every situation, grow through every encounter, and leave a lasting impact,” he said. Diri reiterated NYSC’s role in fostering national unity and called on corps members to promote peace and progress across Bayelsa’s communities. He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the scheme, assuring the corps members of “robust state backing and warm hospitality.” The governor further invited them to immerse themselves in Bayelsa’s cultural heritage and traditions, expressing hope that some would find a sense of belonging in the state and even build careers or families there.
In her welcome address, NYSC State Coordinator Mrs. Okpalifo Obiageli Charity thanked Governor Diri for his consistent support. She disclosed that 1,950 corps members—comprising the current batch—had been registered and were being prepared through the orientation course to develop the skills and mindset needed for optimal performance. Okpalifo appealed for the speedy completion of the ongoing female hostel project at the orientation camp, supported by the state government, and cautioned corps members against social vices or misconduct that could tarnish the NYSC’s reputation. She expressed gratitude to the governor, partners, and guests for their contributions toward sustaining the success of the NYSC program in Bayelsa State.
