By Millicent Ifeanyichukwu
Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has tasked newly inducted National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to uphold their oath of allegiance, emphasising that the scheme was established to promote national unity and socio-economic development.
Sanwo-Olu gave the charge during the official swearing-in of 2026 Batch A, Stream 1, held at the NYSC temporary orientation camp, Iyana-Ipaja on Wednesday.
He said the NYSC engaged young Nigerians from diverse backgrounds to internalise the National Pledge and Oath of Allegiance, equipping them to sustain and surpass achievements of previous generations in national service.
“The NYSC scheme remains a vital instrument for strengthening national unity and peaceful coexistence by bringing young Nigerians together to build a stronger, more cohesive and indivisible nation.”
The governor also emphasised discipline, active participation in camp activities and strict adherence to camp rules to ensure safety, wellbeing and smooth conduct of the Orientation Course.
He highlighted the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) Programme as key platform for self-reliance, enhanced employability and long-term economic empowerment of corps members.
“The SAED programme is designed to equip corps members with practical skills, enhance employability and promote entrepreneurship, empowering them to become job creators and contributors to sustainable socio-economic development.”
Sanwo-Olu was represented by the Permanent Secretary for Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Mrs Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu.
In her remarks, Mrs Christina Salmwang, State Coordinator, NYSC, said the corps members who are 6,648 in number, have been fully registered and accommodated in line with the establishment procedures.
Salmwang declared that some corps members were dislodged to Ekiti, Ondo, Kwara and Ogun for the orientation course, describing the programme as a critical component of the scheme.
She noted that the orientation course was designed to prepare them physically, mentally and morally for the responsibilities of the national service, adding, “your service to the nation is a noble responsibility.
“It is utmost important to mention that cultism and drug abuse are forbidden, especially in the orientation camp. You must, therefore, shun all social vices as offenders will be decamped.”
The state coordinator identified the unwavering support and commitment of the Lagos state Government, and thanked Sanwo-Olu for renovation work in the orientation camp.
She noted that it had been put on hold and would continue after the orientation programme.
“This is part of deliberation efforts to improve camp facilities and enhance the welfare of corps members and camp officials. The renovation is being carried out in phases; plumbing and toilet in the female hostel and the camp hall,” she explained.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the oath of allegiance on the corps members was administered by the Chief Judge of Lagos state, Justice Ajorin Ajose. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Chioma Ugboma
