NYSC Is Not A Holiday Camp – Governor Adeleke Warns Corps Members

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has lauded the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) as a vital institution promoting national unity, youth empowerment, and ethnic integration.

Speaking through his deputy, Kola Adewusi, at the official opening and swearing-in ceremony of the 2025 Batch Stream II orientation course at the NYSC permanent orientation camp in Ede, Governor Adeleke stressed that the NYSC’s contribution to Nigeria’s socio-economic development remains invaluable.

He noted that since its establishment in 1973, the NYSC has been a driving force in uniting Nigerians across ethnic and religious lines while equipping young graduates with essential life skills beyond academic knowledge.

“The presence of corps members here today reflects your readiness to serve Nigeria with honour and dignity,” he stated. “The NYSC remains one of the strongest pillars for national cohesion and civic duty.”

Adeleke encouraged corps members to be respectful and law-abiding in their host communities, assuring them of the state government’s full support regarding their safety and well-being.

“Osun is a peaceful land with rich tradition and great opportunities,” he said. “Our people are friendly and welcoming. I urge you to show respect to your hosts and contribute positively to your communities. We, in turn, will ensure your safety and welfare.”

He also urged the corps members to be worthy ambassadors of their families, institutions, and states, stressing the importance of discipline, loyalty, and service.

“You represent more than yourselves—you carry the hopes of your families and communities. Be change-makers and role models wherever you are posted,” Adeleke added.

In his address, the NYSC Osun State Coordinator, Agbor Ndoma Obim, announced that 2,883 corps members reported for the orientation course. Of these, 1,332—including 574 males and 758 females—were deployed directly to Osun, while 1,551 were dislodged from Lagos State for the three-week camp.

Agbor described the orientation course as a transformative period for self-discovery, skills development, and national service. He, however, warned that the camp is a regimented environment and not a place for leisure.

“Camp is not a vacation resort,” he warned. “Discipline, punctuality, proper dress code, and full participation in all activities are mandatory. We operate a zero-tolerance policy for indiscipline.”

The coordinator also advised corps members to be cautious with social media usage, warning against posting sensitive content online under the guise of content creation.

“Use social media responsibly. Do not share internal camp protocols or sensitive materials. Discipline is a core value of NYSC, and you are expected to be ambassadors of peace, unity, and progress both online and offline,” he concluded.