Gov. David Umahi of Ebonyi on Friday, hailed the patriotism demonstrated by the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members involved in the just concluded general elections in the country.

Umahi made the commendation at the NYSC permanent orientation camp, Afikpo during the swearing-in ceremony of the 2019 Batch A corps members deployed to the state, describing it as ‘creditable’.

The governor represented by the state Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, Mr Charles Akupenika, urged the newly sworn-in corps members to emulate the patriotism displayed by their colleagues.

“I urge you to tow the same path when it is your turn to contribute your quota to nation building.

“Your colleagues displayed true patriotism at the just concluded general elections which was adjudged free and fair,” he said.

He urged the corps members to imbibe the ideals of the scheme which was established as a unique vehicle for national unity and integration.

“I, therefore, urge you to strive and be viable agents in achieving the scheme’s objectives as recent happenings in some parts of the country threaten its cooperate existence.

“You have a crucial role to play in the all-important task of nation building with the scheme established as a unique vehicle for national unity and integration.

“You are reservoirs of intellectualism, energy, creativity and dynamism and should be properly guided for the challenges of the service year,” he said.

Umahi noted that to facilitate optimum output from the corps members, the state government was doing its best to provide a conducive environment for them to guarantee a smooth service year.

“We have embarked on the massive rehabilitation of the orientation camp which include the provision of additional facilities inside the camp.

“We have further increased the allowances payable to you from N5, 000 to N10, 000 to motivate you in optimally discharging your responsibilities,” he said.

Mrs Ann Ibe, the NYSC State Coordinator disclosed that a total of 1, 918 corps members cutting across the six geopolitical zones of the country had completed their registration.

“The corps members have demonstrated high sense of humility, dedication to duty, discipline, diligence and commitment to the course of the program.

“They have positively received all instructions as have been handed down by the camp officials and are ready to make themselves amenable for training as well as the service year,” she said.

Mr Samuel Obiobi, a corps member from Benue commended the hospitality of Ebonyi people and pledged to discharge his service year creditably. (NAN)

– Mar. 29, 2019 @ 18:08 GMT |