NYSC – The Director, North Central Office 2, Mrs. Grace C Ogbuogebe, has charged Corps Members of the 2025 Batch A, Stream 1 orientation course in Benue State to acquire relevant skills during the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development session and continue developing those skills after camp.
She gave this advice during her official oversight visit to the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Wannune, Tarka LGA, Benue State.
Mrs. Ogbuogebe reminded the corps members that the NYSC programme is a one-year opportunity to build discipline, character, and unity. Citing the establishment of the scheme by decree in 1973 to promote national integration after the civil war.
She emphasized that fostering unity remains a core objective, one best achieved through youth collaboration.
She encouraged corps members to view their platoons as miniature versions of Nigeria, diverse, yet united, and not as platforms for division.
She also described the leadership training provided during camp as a crucial avenue to groom responsible future leaders, urging corps members to approach their service year as problem-solvers, never underestimating themselves or others.
Highlighting the importance of self-reliance, Mrs. Ogbuogebe advised the corps members to learn at least one skill and continue building on it beyond camp.
“A job doesn’t stop you from learning a skill,” she said, stressing that the NYSC aims to help participants discover and develop their God-given talents.
As they prepare to proceed to their Places of Primary Assignment (PPA), she urged them to settle in quickly, embark on community development initiatives, and strive to leave lasting legacies.
“Some communities have the resources but lack the knowledge of what to do. You are there to guide and lead,” she noted.
She cautioned against excessive use of social media, advocated for personal development, and emphasized that future leaders must be equipped with both knowledge and discipline.
She also advised them to be security conscious, avoid night travel, and when necessary, lodge in military or royal lodges for safety.
In conclusion, she urged corps members to respect local customs, avoid isolation, and build healthy relationships.
She also noted the government’s support for inter-corps marriages, referencing a grant of ₦500,000 available to corps members who marry fellow corps members.
Earlier, the State Coordinator, Mrs. Veronica Garba, warmly welcomed Mrs. Ogbuogebe to the camp, expressing the excitement of both corps members and officials at her visit.
She reported that the 2025 Batch A Orientation Course commenced on April 22, and the swearing-in ceremony was successfully conducted on April 25, with a total of 1,574 corps members in camp, 774 males and 800 females.
According to Mrs. Garba, the corps members have demonstrated admirable tolerance, discipline, and cooperation since their arrival, diligently attending lectures and complying with camp rules and regulations.
The highlight of the event was the cash presentation by the Director to various groups within the camp, and a vibrant performance by the NYSC dance troupe.
Also present during the visit were the Camp Director, Mr. Kufre Ezekiel Umoren; the Camp Commandant, Lt. A.I. Ahmed; other camp officials; and representatives from collaborating agencies.