The Oyo State Coordinator of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has said Nigerian youths require mentorship, guidance, and a conducive environment to thrive and realise their full potential.
The State Coordinator, Mr Kayode Peters, stated this during an event marking the 53rd Anniversary of the NYSC, held in Ibadan on Friday.
Peters described the scheme as one of Nigeria’s most enduring symbols of national integration, youth empowerment, patriotism, and selfless service.
He noted that the anniversary was not merely a celebration of years but a celebration of impact, resilience, sacrifice, and purposeful nation-building since its establishment in 1973.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the NYSC was established by the then Head of State, retired Gen. Yakubu Gowon, after the Nigerian civil war.
Peters recalls the scheme’s vision to foster national unity, rebuild mutual trust, and provide opportunities for young graduates from diverse ethnic, religious, and cultural backgrounds.
According to him, the vision longs to see the young graduates living, working, and serving together as one people.
“Over the decades, the scheme has evolved into a transformative institution that has positively shaped millions of Nigerian youths while contributing immensely to national development,” he said.
Highlighting the role of corps members in community development, Peters said the Community Development Service (CDS) platform has enabled young graduates to touch lives across the country.
The coordinator, acknowledging the Oyo State Government and other stakeholders’ support, said the state has continued to stand as a shining example of the ideals upon which the NYSC was founded.
On the future of the scheme, Peters stressed the need for intentional investment in youths, especially through programmes like the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) initiative.
Concluding his remarks, he urged corps members to remain focused, law-abiding, diligent, and committed to excellence.
According to him, national unity remains the bedrock of sustainable development, as the scheme continues to promote tolerance, understanding, mutual respect, and shared national identity.
The Guest Lecturer, Mr Olurotimi Oluajo, speaking on the topic: “Honouring the Past, Strengthening the Present and Securing the Future,” said the scheme’s achievements far outweigh its challenges or difficulties.
Oluajo noted that Nigeria’s future depends greatly on the mindset of its youths.
According to him, NYSC remains one of the strongest national institutions capable of promoting tolerance, encouraging peaceful coexistence, building leadership, and creating national consciousness.
“As Nigeria progresses, we must continue to improve the scheme to meet the new demand.
“We must address the gap in developing the welfare and how the scheme can contribute to preparing our graduates for today’s job market, and not only to serve our fatherland anymore,” he said.
The state Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Alhaja Wasilat Adegoke, had earlier said that the NYSC has fulfilled its objective of fostering unity among Nigerians and appreciating opportunities in diversity.
The commissioner charged corps members to actively participate in all training specially designed for them to have a fulfilling service and be self-reliant after the service year.
