Ebonyi State Governor, Chief Francis Nwifuru, has emphasized the importance of the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development programme for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members. During the swearing-in of the 2026 NYSC Batch ‘C’ Stream 1 Corps Members in Afikpo, Ebonyi State, Nwifuru stated that the programme is a tool for self-reliance, employment creation, and meaningful contribution to the economy. He encouraged corps members to see the skills they acquire as a means to become self-reliant.
Nwifuru's administration is committed to building a state that creates opportunities, supports economic activity, and equips young people with the skills required to compete in a changing world. The governor highlighted his administration's investments in agriculture, human capital development, and the establishment of the National Automotive Design and Development Council Automotive Training Centre in Abakaliki. This centre aims to equip young people with practical skills in the automotive and technical sectors.
The governor's call to action aligns with the theme of the 2026 Batch ‘C’ Orientation Course, "Reimagining the NYSC Orientation Course: Building Resilient, Responsible and Service-Oriented Corps Members for a Changing World." Ebonyi state Coordinator of NYSC, Mrs Malgwi Pat. Maidariya, emphasized the need to equip Corps Members with values, knowledge, and practical skills to respond to contemporary challenges and contribute to nation-building.
Maidariya noted that the theme of the orientation course aligns with the Ebonyi State Government's development agenda, which focuses on human capital development, youth empowerment, skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, responsible citizenship, and inclusive development. The NYSC programme aims to prepare corps members for active participation in nation-building and community development.
Meanwhile, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has demanded the immediate and safe rescue of 19 prospective NYSC members and other travellers abducted in Imo State. The group urged the federal government to deploy all available intelligence, security assets, and specialist capabilities to secure their release.
The abduction of the corps members and travellers has raised concerns about the security situation in the country. HURIWA's demand for their rescue highlights the need for the government to prioritize the safety and security of citizens, particularly those participating in the NYSC programme.
In Ebonyi State, the NYSC programme is ongoing, with corps members engaging in various activities, including skills acquisition and community development projects. The state government's commitment to supporting the programme and equipping young people with skills is expected to have a positive impact on the state's development.
Key points
- Ebonyi State Governor, Chief Francis Nwifuru, has charged NYSC members to take advantage of the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development programme to become self-reliant and contribute to the economy.
- HURIWA has demanded the immediate and safe rescue of 19 prospective NYSC members and other travellers abducted in Imo State.
- The NYSC programme aims to prepare corps members for active participation in nation-building and community development.
