The Deputy Governor of Gombe State, Dr Manassah Jatau, on Friday lauded the founders of the National Youth Service Corps, saying corps members have helped bridge manpower deficits across many states of the federation.
Jatau stated this while addressing the Gombe NYSC Coordinator, Chinwe Nwachuku, corps members and staff who walked from the Gombe Local Government Secretariat to his office along Gombe-Bauchi Road to commemorate the 53rd anniversary of the scheme.
He said, “We want to sincerely appreciate you for all you have been doing since the establishment of the scheme by General Yakubu Gowon in 1973.
“I served in 1979 in Lagos. Each ethnic group has its own culture and unless you move around the country, you may not fully appreciate it. If you grow up in Ibadan and are only conversant with the South-West, you will be limited to Yoruba philosophy.
“NYSC has bolstered manpower because many states cannot employ enough civil servants for obvious reasons, and corps members have continued to fill critical gaps. Many of you serve as medical doctors and other professionals in communities.
“We urge you to continue because you are ambassadors of your religion, ethnic group and geopolitical zone. You must remain disciplined, honest and dedicated in your places of primary assignment.
“That the scheme has remained relevant 53 years after its creation shows how resilient, responsive, creative and innovative it has been. You must continue to uphold the qualities that have sustained it over the years.”
Jatau also warned against manipulation in the posting and mobilisation process for corps members.
“May I please appeal to all stakeholders to avoid cutting corners in the recruitment and mobilisation process of corps members. Many years after the Sokoto scandal, where a corps member admitted obtaining a fake certificate, reports suggest such practices are still ongoing.
“I pray that the aims and objectives of the scheme will continue to be realised. Wherever you are posted to serve, please go and serve diligently,” he added.
On her part, the Gombe State NYSC Coordinator, Chinwe Nwachuku, commended the Gombe State Government for supporting corps members in the state, stressing that Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya’s administration had ensured their safety and welfare.
“We consider this government a corps-friendly one. We are grateful for the support and look forward to improved partnership,” she said.