By: Amos Odeh, Yenagoa.
Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has described the state as safe, rich in opportunities and hospitable for corps members during and after their national service year.
He therefore urged them to tap into the many positive opportunities that abound in the state to become better and richer versions of themselves as the land remains very fertile for creative and enterprising corps members during and after their service year.
Gov. Diri stated this during the opening / swearing in ceremony of 2025 Batch B, Stream 2 prospective corps members deployed to the state at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Boro Town, Bayelsa State.
Gov. Diri who was represented by his Executive Assistant on NYSC Matters, Dr. Wisdom Poyeri further said that the presence of the corps members in Bayelsa was not by coincidence but a divine plan to make them glorious in the glory of all lands.
He commended them for joining the ranks of vibrant youth across the nation who have been found worthy – both in character and in learning from various institutions of higher learning – to participate in this time-honoured National Youth Service Corps scheme.
“Let me remind you that this new chapter demands from you an even higher standard of conduct. The world is watching, and your actions henceforth will shape not just your reputation, but your future opportunities
” The virtues that brought you this far – integrity, hard work, wisdom – must now shine even brighter. I urge you to conduct yourselves with strict discipline, honesty, and a deep sense of patriotism.”
“As you settle into service here in Bayelsa State, be prepared to embrace both the challenges and the numerous opportunities that await you. The road ahead may sometimes be rough, but it is often through navigating adversity that we find our true strength and develop the tenacity needed for success and greatness.”
” Every big achievement starts with a single, sometimes humble, step. See this service year as an invaluable foundation – a chance to learn from every situation, to grow through every encounter, to lead, and to make a mark. Cherish this unique privilege to contribute meaningfully to your host communities, and in so doing, extend the frontiers of national unity, progress, and peace to all the nooks and crannies of the state”
He further expressed sincere appreciation and commendation to the leadership and staff of the National Youth Service Corps for their continuous fostering of national unity and pride which have become the backbone of the Service Corps.
” Through your tireless efforts, the NYSC has remained relevant and impactful, shaping not only the futures of young Nigerians but also the leaders of tomorrow who will steer our country to greater heights,” he said.
He assured them of robust support and warm hospitality and hoped sincerely that some of them will discover a sense of belonging and purpose in Bayelsa State. He prayed that Bayelsa will become a place where they can lay down roots, build a fulfilling career, find love, and create a lasting home..
The governor enjoined them to “Immerse yourselves in the rich culture, traditions, and beauty of our land. Build bonds of friendship and understanding that will last a lifetime.”
He again welcomed them to Bayelsa State and wished them a productive, impactful and memorable service year and declared the orientation course opened.
Earlier In her welcome remarks, the State Coordinator, Mrs Okpalifo Obiageli Charity thanked the governor, collaborating partners and other distinguished guests for their presence.
She highlighted the objectives of the orientation course and advised the 1,950 corps members deployed to the state to embrace the service year with all the seriousness it deserves saying that careful and deliberate programmes have been well designed to adequately prepare and equip them for optimum performance.
She expressed gratitude to the Governor for the ongoing construction of the female hostel and appealed for its early completion.
She enjoined the corps members to shun all forms of social vices and actions detrimental to the image of the scheme during orientation course and in their various places of primary assignments .
