The National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, on Friday swore in 1,200 corps members for the 2025 Batch ‘B’ Stream 1 orientation in Benue.
State Coordinator, Mrs Veronica Garba, gave the figure during the swearing-in at the NYSC Orientation Camp in Wannune, Tarka Local Government Area.
In her address, Garba urged the corps members to engage in all camp activities designed to develop their leadership potential and national consciousness.
She said they would face healthy competitions where they must demonstrate discipline, teamwork, and the spirit of sportsmanship throughout their stay in camp.
Garba added that corps members would also be involved in administrative operations to enhance their leadership and civic responsibilities.
She assured the corps members that the people and government of Benue were hospitable and urged them to feel at home.
Garba appreciated Gov. Hyacinth Alia for his unwavering support to the NYSC, especially in ensuring the safety of corps members.
She noted that the governor prioritised corps members’ security by facilitating deployments to their various places of primary assignment.
Governor Alia, represented by Mr Philip Nongu, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth, Sports and Creativity, congratulated the corps members on completing their studies.
He expressed concern over national security challenges and noted that Benue was also affected by the situation.
In spite of this, he assured the corps members of their safety throughout their service year, owing to collaboration with security agencies.
He urged them to embrace the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) Programme to gain relevant vocational skills.
According to him, the SAED programme would empower them to become self-reliant and adapt to the country’s current economic realities.
Earlier, the Benue Chief Judge, Justice Maurice Ikpambese, administered the oath of allegiance and advised the corps members to remain law-abiding.
