The Director of Corps Welfare and Health Services of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Omotade Ayodele has admonished corps members not to rely on white-collar jobs, saying it’s not a means to sustain financial success.
Ayodele stated this on Thursday while addressing Corps members during his visit to the NYSC orientation camp at Wannune, Tarka Local Government Area of Benue State.
The director advised the corps members to fully engage in the NYSC Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme.
He described the programme as a crucial pathway to financial independence rather than seeking white-collar jobs after their one-year mandatory service.
He said, “SAED is your way to say goodbye to poverty and avoid the frustration of carrying files around, saying ‘Good morning, sir’.
“It will be a shame if you leave this camp without acquiring a skill that will be of immense benefit to you.
“White-collar job alone will not make you wealthy. You must explore entrepreneurial opportunities and develop valuable skills to secure your future.”
While encouraging the corps members to embrace all camp activities, the director said that the regimented environment at orientation camp was designed to instill discipline, patriotism, and personal development.
Ayodele cautioned Corps members against trying to manipulate their postings, stating that their placement might serve a greater purpose.
According to him, “Do not truncate someone’s destiny just because you want to relocate. You never can tell you may have been posted to Benue for a reason.
“Wherever you find yourself, give your best because what is worth doing is worth doing well.”
The director reiterated the primary objectives of the NYSC to maintain national unity and integration.
On security, the director advised the corps members to be vigilant and respect the religion, culture, and traditions of their host communities.
“Do not engage in activities that could endanger your life during your service year,” he said.
Ayodele further advised against late-night travels, reminding the corps members of the organization’s standing policy, saying, “If you must travel, always use designated motor parks and never travel beyond 6 pm. This is a rule designed for your safety.”
The director, in recognising contributions to camp life, presented gifts to several groups, including the Quarter Guards, Man ‘O’ War Special Squad, Camp Band, Red Cross Society, OBS Crew, Platoon Leaders, and the Bugler.
He also made significant donations towards the upcoming platoon carnival, ensuring that all ten platoons benefited.
Earlier in her speech, the State Coordinator of NYSC, Mrs Veronica Garba, informed the visiting director, that the Corps members have adjusted to the camp environment, and have since been participating in all activities.
Garba disclosed that a total of 1,925 corps members were registered, comprising 1,022 females and 903 males.
