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By Sola Rotimi
Members of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC have once again been challenged to make tangible contributions to their host communities and leave lasting legacies during their one-year national service.
Kwara State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq gave the charge at the formal opening and swearing-in ceremony of the 2026 Batch ‘B’ Stream One of orientation course at the NYSC Temporary Orientation Camp, Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin.
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Mr Kayode Alabi, the Kwara State governor urged the corps members to see patriotism as practical service rather than mere rhetoric.
According to him, true patriotism is reflected in actions such as improving education, supporting healthcare delivery and initiating community development projects that positively impact people’s lives.
“Patriotism is not a slogan you shout at camp. It is what you do when no one is watching. It is the teacher who stays back to help one more child read. It is the health worker who treats patients with dignity. It is the Corps Member who sees a broken borehole and decides to fix it instead of posting about it,” he sad.
Governor AbdulRazaq noted that many former corps members who served in Kwara distinguished themselves by renovating classrooms, establishing free ICT centres and conducting medical outreaches in underserved communities, adding that their contributions remain appreciated long after their service year ended.
He also reassured the corps members of the state government’s commitment to their safety and welfare throughout their stay in Kwara.
In his remarks, the Kwara State Coordinator NYSC Coordinator, Mr Olaoluwa Onifade disclosed that that 1,496 prospective corps members, comprising 703 males and 793females, were officially admitted into national service after reporting to camp on June 10.
He described the orientation course as the foundation of the NYSC scheme, noting that activities such as paramilitary drills, Man O’ War exercises, lectures and social engagements were designed to transform graduates into nation builders.
“From the moment you take the Oath of allegiance, you represent something bigger than your name. You represent your family, your institution, and your country. So conduct your matters responsibly”.
The State Coordinator reminded the corps members that the Oath of Allegiance was a solemn commitment to the nation and urged them to conduct themselves responsibly, uphold discipline and represent their families, institutions and Nigeria with honour throughout the service year.
He commended the Kwara State governor for his administration’s continued support for the NYSC scheme and expressed appreciation to security agencies and partner organisations for ensuring a safe and conducive environment for the orientation exercise.
The total of 1,496 Corps members deployed to Kwara State were sworn in by the State Chief Judge, Justice Abiodun Adebara, represented by Justice Mahmud Abdulgafar of the State high Court.
