A total of 873 corps members successfully completed their one-year mandatory national youth service in Gombe State, while three others absconded. This was disclosed by the State Coordinator of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Chinwe Nwachuku, during a low-key passing-out ceremony held at the Gombe Zonal Office.
Nwachuku expressed satisfaction with the performance of the corps members, commending their dedication and commitment to service. She noted that the scheme had recorded significant achievements in various sectors, including education, health, agriculture, and community development.
“Despite the challenges faced by the corps members, they were able to contribute their quota to the development of their host communities,” Nwachuku said. “We are proud of their accomplishments and we urge them to continue to be good ambassadors of the scheme.”
Corps Members Share Experiences
Speaking on behalf of the outgoing corps members, the Batch Coordinator thanked the NYSC management for the opportunity to serve their fatherland. He highlighted some of the challenges faced by the corps members, including insecurity, poor infrastructure, and inadequate allowances.
Three Corps Members Abscond
While the majority of the corps members successfully completed their service, three others were reported to have absconded. Nwachuku expressed disappointment at the actions of the absconders, stating that their behavior was a breach of the NYSC code of conduct.
“Absconding from service is a serious offense and we will not tolerate it,” Nwachuku warned. “We will pursue the absconders and ensure that they face the consequences of their actions.”
NYSC Emphasizes Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship
In line with the Federal Government’s policy on youth empowerment, the NYSC has placed a strong emphasis on skill acquisition and entrepreneurship. The scheme has introduced various programs to equip corps members with the necessary skills to become self-reliant and job creators.
During the passing-out ceremony, several corps members who excelled in various fields were recognized and rewarded. These include corps members who excelled in academics, sports, and community development.
Challenges Facing NYSC
Despite its achievements, the NYSC continues to face a number of challenges. These include inadequate funding, insecurity, and the need for more modern facilities.
To address these challenges, the NYSC has called on the government and other stakeholders to provide the necessary support. The scheme has also embarked on various reforms to improve its operations and better serve the nation’s youth.
Corps Members Urged to Be Good Ambassadors
As the corps members embark on a new phase of their lives, they have been urged to be good ambassadors of the NYSC scheme. Nwachuku encouraged them to use the knowledge and skills acquired during their service year to contribute positively to society.
“You have served your country diligently and we are proud of you,” Nwachuku said. “I urge you to continue to be good citizens and to make a difference in your communities.”
The Future of NYSC
The NYSC has been in existence for over 40 years and has played a significant role in national development. As the country continues to evolve, the scheme is expected to adapt to new challenges and opportunities.
There have been calls for the reform or even abolition of the NYSC, but the scheme has continued to enjoy widespread support. Many Nigerians believe that the NYSC is still relevant and that it plays a crucial role in promoting national unity and integration.
Conclusion
The passing-out of Batch B Stream II corps members in Gombe State marks the end of another chapter in the history of the NYSC. While the scheme has recorded significant achievements, there is still room for improvement.
As the nation continues to grapple with youth unemployment and other challenges, the NYSC remains a vital platform for youth development and empowerment. It is essential that the scheme receives the necessary support to enable it to fulfill its mandate.
