Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has charged corps members deployed to the state to embrace the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development, SAED, programme to become self-reliant and break the barrier of unemployment.
Governor Diri gave the charge yesterday during the swearing-in ceremony of the 2026 Batch C, Stream I corps members at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Boro Town, Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area of the state.
The governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Youth Development, Hon. Alfred Kemepade Nimizigha, congratulated the corps members on the successful completion of their academic pursuits and their response to the call to national service.
According to him, their participation in the scheme is a demonstration of patriotism and commitment to national unity.
Diri said his administration has placed emphasis on vocational skills, science and technology, and urged the corps members to take advantage of entrepreneurship opportunities available in the state to enhance their prospects beyond the service year.
He said: “Adopt discipline, prioritise your safety and take full advantage of the skill acquisition opportunities throughout your service year.
“Respect the culture and traditions of your host communities, learn local languages, appreciate indigenous cuisine and deepen your understanding of the history and traditions of the Ijaw people.”
He also cautioned them against partisan politics, cultism and other social vices capable of jeopardising their future.
Earlier in his address, the NYSC State Coordinator, Mr. Samuel Amaramiro Pepple, said the three-week orientation course was designed to introduce corps members to the ideals, objectives and programmes of the scheme.
Pepple urged them to participate actively in all camp activities, including lectures, drills, sports, dance and drama, with particular emphasis on the SAED programme.
He said young Nigerians remain critical stakeholders in the nation’s future, stressing that the NYSC provides a unique platform for youths from diverse backgrounds to interact, build relationships and contribute to national development.
The state coordinator, who thanked the state government and other stakeholders for their support for the scheme, further urged corps members to obey camp rules, remain punctual and uphold the ideals of the NYSC.
