News Investigators/ Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has advised the 2026 Batch ‘A’ Stream II corps members posted to the state to be law abiding and remain neutral ahead of the Aug. 15 governorship election in the state.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 2,600 corps members, comprised of 1,400 females and 1,200 males, were deployed to the state for their service year.
Mr Adeleke gave the advice on Thursday at the swearing-in and official opening ceremony of the orientation course at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Ede.
He said that the presence of corps members deployed to the state reflected the NYSC’s vision of promoting national unity, integration and mutual understanding among Nigerians.
The governor said “Osun remains a peaceful and accommodating state where corps members can live, learn and contribute meaningfully to society.
“The orientation course remains a vital component of the service year and is designed to instill discipline, leadership qualities and resilience in participants.
“The course will expose corps members to paramilitary drills, lectures, skills acquisition programmes and social activities needed for effective service delivery.”
Mr Adeleke also advised corps members to participate actively in all camp activities and take full advantage of the opportunities provided.
He commended the NYSC state coordinator, camp management and the state governing board for their roles in the smooth running of the scheme.
Mr Adeleke reiterated his administration’s commitment to the welfare and security of corps members in the state.
“I encourage you to integrate with your host communities, respect local customs and contribute positively to socio-economic development.
“As you may be aware, Osun will be approaching a gubernatorial election in August and you are expected to remain neutral, professional and committed to the rules guiding your service,” he said.
The governor further said that the NYSC scheme was non-partisan and warned the corps members against involvement in partisan politics.
Mr Adeleke assured the corps members that adequate security measures had been put in place in collaboration with relevant agencies to ensure their safety throughout their stay in the state.
He asked the corps members to see the service year as an opportunity to contribute to nation-building, develop themselves and build lasting relationships.
In his remarks, the NYSC Coordinator, Ekeng Ita Kubiangha, urged corps members to remain disciplined, neutral and security conscious throughout their service year.
Mr Kubiangha described their mobilisation as the beginning of a significant phase in their lives.
He said that their mobilisation offers opportunities for national service and personal development.
The coordinator also appreciated the Osun Government for its continued support to the scheme, particularly in the areas of welfare, security and prompt payment of allowances.
Mr Kubiangha also commended the state government for renovation and construction works at the orientation camp, noting that the improvements had enhanced facilities and created a more conducive environment for training.
According to him, the course would expose corps members to paramilitary drills, leadership and citizenship training, lectures on national development as well as social activities aimed at promoting unity and teamwork.
” The Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme as a key component of the orientation exercise.
“The SAED programme is aimed at equipping corps members with practical skills that will enhance self-reliance and reduce dependence on scarce white-collar jobs,” Mr Kubiangha said.
The state coordinator reminded the corps members of the forthcoming gubernatorial election, noting that they might be called upon to serve as ad hoc personnel.
Mr Kubiangha stressed the need for them to remain neutral, professional and law-abiding, warning against involvement in partisan politics.
NAN
