The Director of Corps Welfare and Health Services of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Omotade Ayodele, has urged corps members in Benue State to fully participate in the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme.
During a visit to the NYSC orientation camp in Wannune, Tarka Local Government Area, on Thursday, Ayodele emphasized that SAED is a vital tool for achieving financial independence.
He advised the corps members to make the most of their camp experience, highlighting that solely relying on white-collar jobs is not a sustainable route to financial success.
“SAED is your opportunity to break free from poverty and avoid the frustration of working a desk job,” Ayodele said. “It would be a missed opportunity if you leave this camp without acquiring a skill that can greatly benefit you.”
He stressed the importance of exploring entrepreneurship and developing valuable skills for future security, adding that white-collar jobs alone won’t lead to wealth. “To secure your future, you need to look beyond office jobs and tap into entrepreneurial opportunities.”
In his address, Ayodele also urged the corps members to embrace the regimented camp environment, which he said is designed to foster discipline, patriotism, and personal development.
He also spoke against attempts to manipulate postings for relocation, advising corps members to trust in their assignments. “You never know, your placement could serve a higher purpose,” he remarked. “Give your best wherever you are posted—what’s worth doing is worth doing well.”
The director reminded the corps members of the NYSC’s primary mission of promoting national unity and integration. Regarding security, he encouraged them to stay vigilant and respect the customs and traditions of their host communities, while also avoiding risky behavior.
“Do not engage in activities that could endanger your life during your service year,” he advised, warning against late-night travel. “If you must travel, always use designated motor parks and ensure you’re not traveling after 6pm for your safety.”
To acknowledge outstanding contributions to camp life, Ayodele presented 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 a substantial donation to support the upcoming Platoon Carnival, benefiting all ten platoons.
Earlier, NYSC State Coordinator Mrs. Veronica Garba informed the director that the corps members had adjusted well to camp life and were actively participating in all activities. She reported that 1,925 corps members were registered, including 1,022 females and 903 males.
