By Anne Azuka
Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has urged members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) deployed to the state to uphold the ideals of patriotism, discipline, selflessness, and service throughout their orientation and primary assignments.
Governor Oborevwori made the call at the Swearing-in Ceremony of the 2025 Batch ‘B’ Stream 1 Orientation Course for corps members, held at the Permanent Orientation Camp, Issele-Uku, Aniocha North Local Government Area.
Represented by the State Commissioner for Youth Development, Barr. Trakiriowei Harry ThankGod, the governor described these virtues as the bedrock of nation-building, noting that the role of corps members as change agents cannot be overstated.
“As a government, we deeply value the NYSC and remain committed to youth empowerment,” Oborevwori stated.
He acknowledged some of the challenges facing the scheme, including the rejection of corps members and infrastructural deficits in orientation camps, assuring that these issues are being addressed with seriousness and urgency.
Declaring the orientation course open, the governor encouraged corps members to take full advantage of the NYSC Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme and initiatives like NYSC Ventures. He explained that these platforms are designed to equip participants with practical skills and entrepreneurial knowledge to promote post-service self-reliance and reduce youth unemployment.
“Delta State provides a conducive environment for you to thrive and contribute meaningfully to society,” he added.
Governor Oborevwori also urged corps members to actively engage in Community Development Service (CDS) groups, which he said offer opportunities to raise awareness on social issues, promote positive values, and contribute to national development.
He cautioned them against engaging in cultism, drug abuse, thuggery, cybercrime, prostitution, militancy, kidnapping, terrorism, and the get-rich-quick mentality. Instead, he advised them to approach their assignments with diligence, empathy, and a strong sense of purpose.
“Those who distinguish themselves in service, especially through impactful community projects, will be celebrated and honoured during the State Government Award Ceremony,” he said. “Let your conduct throughout your service year reflect the highest standards of integrity, diligence, and excellence.”
Earlier in his remarks, the NYSC Delta State Coordinator, Mr. John Kwaghe, disclosed that a total of 1,374 prospective corps members—comprising 613 males and 761 females—were registered at the close of registration ahead of the swearing-in ceremony.
Kwaghe expressed appreciation to the Oborevwori-led administration for its continued support for the scheme in the state.
He, however, appealed to the governor to urgently reconstruct the camp’s perimeter fence, noting that its collapse had allowed vandals to breach the facility and damage electrical installations just days before the commencement of the orientation course.
