News Investigators/ Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo of Edo has urged members of the 2026 Batch ‘C’ Stream I National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to use their service year to acquire skills, build networks and explore opportunities capable of shaping their future careers.
Mr Okpebholo gave the charge on Friday at the swearing-in ceremony of the 2544 corps members deployed to Edo at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Okada.
The governor described the one-year national service as an opportunity for personal and professional growth.
Mr Okpebholo, who was represented by Mr Anthony Irabor, Director of Youths in the State Ministry of Youth Development, said Edo offers opportunities in agriculture, education, technology, entrepreneurship and tourism.
“As you begin this important chapter of national service, let me reassure you that your welfare, safety and security is of great importance to this administration.
“Edo State holds immense potential for personal and professional growth. Over the next one year, you will discover numerous opportunities in agriculture, education, technology, entrepreneurship and tourism,” he said.
Mr Okpebholo urged the corps members to leverage the NYSC platform as a launch pad for their professional aspirations while participating actively in the orientation programme and the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme.
“As 21st century graduates, you have access to unparalleled opportunities in today’s interconnected global economy.
“The Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) Programme of the NYSC is tailored to help you harness these opportunities.
“I encourage you to approach your service year with innovation, adaptability and a commitment to excellence,” he said.
He also challenged the corps members to leave a positive imprint on their host communities through contributions in education, healthcare, agriculture and community development.
The governor assured the corps members of government’s commitment to their welfare and security, saying the administration is working with the NYSC management, security agencies and community leaders to make their service year safe and impactful.
Earlier, the NYSC Edo Coordinator, Fasina Adedotun, said 2,544 prospective corps members had registered for the orientation course as of midnight on Thursday.
He said the figure comprised 1,179 males and 1,365 females, adding that they joined the orientation programme alongside their counterparts across the country on Sept. 30.
He urged them to embrace discipline, learning, and the opportunities provided by the scheme.
“Discipline remains pivotal to the successful realisation of the NYSC objectives. I therefore urge you to embrace self-discipline, display a willingness to learn and make the most of the opportunities available during your service year,” he said.
The coordinator said the NYSC continues to contribute to Edo’s socio-economic development by providing skilled manpower to critical sectors.
He added that deploying corps members across all 18 local government areas promotes labour mobility and fosters national unity.
He also highlighted the scheme’s quarterly Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers (HIRD), through which corps medical personnel provide free medical outreaches in remote communities.
According to him, corps members trained under the SAED programme continue to empower state residents. They have trained numerous youths and women in various practical skills.
Mr Adedotun appreciated the state government for providing buses to transport corps members to their various local government areas after orientation and commended the administration for prioritising their welfare, security and development.
The governor subsequently declared the 2026 Batch ‘C’ Stream I Orientation Course open.
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