Mohammed Bago, the governor of Niger State, has urged the current class of National Youth Service Corps participants to develop their abilities, claiming that there are no longer any white-collar jobs available in the nation.
Only those with talents will be able to scrape by due to the current economic crisis and the withdrawal of gasoline subsidies, he claimed.
This was said by Bago at the opening and swearing-in ceremony for the NYSC 2023 Batch B Stream II at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Paiko.
White-collar occupations are no longer easily accessible, according to the governor, who was represented by Salisu Abubakar, Secretary to the State Government.
“With what is happening in the country with the current economic downturn and the removal of fuel subsidy, only those in the skilled sector are at an advantage.
“I am aware that the NYSC Skill Acquisition Program commenced from orientation camp. I strongly advise you to participate actively in these trainings and acquire skills for yourselves.
“Note that white-collar jobs are becoming more scarce, therefore it is very important to learn a skill or two to quickly become self-reliant.”
Bago noted that the NYSC provides corps members with an opportunity to contribute their quota to national development.
“As you are aware, the scheme was created with the aim of national integration.
“I, therefore, urge you to continue to live up to the expectations of Nigerians and that of the founding fathers.
“I admonish you against indiscipline. Abide by the ethics of your various profession and also participate actively in camp activities.”
The governor noted the difficulties at the state NYSC camp and said that his administration will improve the camp’s infrastructure.
He also gave the management reassurance that the state government is committed to creating a favorable environment in Niger State for the NYSC to operate.
The NYSC Niger State Coordinator, Mrs. Alidat Abdulwahab Olayinka, praised the Niger State Government for its assistance in ensuring the welfare and security of corps members in her remarks.
Salisu Abubakar, the Secretary to the State Government and Chairman of the NYSC State Governing Council, advised the corps members to stand out in all of their endeavors.
He claimed that the corps members were one of Nigeria’s greatest assets and that they had a responsibility to uphold established authority throughout their service year.
Abubakar guaranteed that the NYSC governing body in the state will continue to fulfill its obligation to provide transportation, housing, and security for corps members through Musa Rogo Ibrahim, Permanent Secretary, General Duties.
