The Director of Corps Welfare and Health Services of the National Youth Service Corps, Omotade Ayodele, has urged corps members serving in Benue State to actively participate in the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) program.
On Thursday, during his visit to the NYSC orientation camp at Wannune in Tarka Local Government Area, Ayodele encouraged the participants to participate in camp activities and highlighted SAED as a vital route to financial independence.
He advised that depending solely on white-collar jobs is not a sustainable path to financial success. SAED is your opportunity to bid farewell to poverty and to avoid the frustration of merely carrying files around while saying, ‘Good morning, sir.’
“It would be regrettable if you leave this camp without acquiring a skill that will significantly benefit you.
“Relying solely on a white-collar job will not make you wealthy. You must seek out entrepreneurial opportunities and develop essential skills to secure your future.”
He emphasized the importance of embracing the camp experience, describing it as a “structured environment designed to promote discipline, patriotism, and personal growth.”
Regarding relocation, Ayodele warned corps members against attempting to manipulate their postings, stressing that their assignments might serve a greater purpose. He said, “Do not disrupt someone’s destiny just because you want to relocate. You never know; you may have been sent to Benue for a specific reason.”
“Wherever you are, strive to give your best, as anything worth doing is worth doing well.”
The director emphasized the main goals of the NYSC, which are to foster national unity and integration.
Regarding security, he urged corps members to remain alert and to honor the religion, culture, and traditions of their host communities.
“Avoid engaging in activities that could put your life at risk during your service year,” he cautioned.
He also advised against traveling late at night, reminding them of the organization’s policy: “If you must travel, always use designated motor parks and never travel after 6 pm. This rule is in place for your safety.”
To acknowledge exceptional contributions to camp life, the Director awarded gifts to various 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 contributions toward the upcoming Platoon Carnival, ensuring that all ten platoons received benefits.
Earlier, the State Coordinator of NYSC, Mrs. Veronica Garba, informed the visiting Director that the corps members have adapted to the camp environment and have been actively participating in all activities.
Garba reported that a total of 1,925 corps members were registered, consisting of 1,022 females and 903 males.