NYSC: A Call for Patriotic, Selfless Service – Gov. Adeleke

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke described the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) as a call to patriotic and self‑less service, offering a chance for young people to contribute meaningfully to national development.

The governor urged corps members posted in the state to stay apolitical and professional in any electoral duties they may be called upon to perform before the state governorship election on August 15.

Speaking at the swearing‑in and official opening of the orientation course for the 2026 Batch B Stream I service year at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Ede on Monday, he said the corps members had a duty to uphold the integrity of the electoral process if they were tasked with ad‑hoc responsibilities.

Represented by Prof Moruf Adeleke, the Commissioner for Budget and Planning, the governor called national service a patriotic and self‑less responsibility, urging the corps members to seize the opportunity to contribute to national development while gaining experiences that would shape their futures.

“As Corps Members who may be called upon to participate in the electoral process, I urge you to remain apolitical, impartial and professional in the discharge of your responsibilities. Do not allow yourselves to be influenced by any form of inducement or undue pressure,” he said.

He added that election credibility depends heavily on the integrity of those involved and advised the corps members to strictly follow the guidelines of the Independent National Electoral Commission and the values of the NYSC.

Adeleke also reminded participants to stay faithful to the National Pledge and the Oath of Allegiance taken during the ceremony, urging them to be law‑abiding, responsible and respectful of established authority.

The governor assured the corps members that the Osun State Government would continue to support the NYSC scheme and work with relevant stakeholders to ensure their welfare and security throughout the service year.

He encouraged them to embrace Nigeria’s diversity by forming friendships across ethnic, religious and cultural lines, while also urging them not to seek relocation hastily but to make the most of opportunities available in Osun State.

“Osun State is peaceful, hospitable and blessed with a rich cultural heritage. Rather than seeking relocation at the first opportunity, I urge you to experience the beauty, serenity and hospitality that Osun State has to offer,” Governor Adeleke said.

Earlier, Osun State NYSC Coordinator Ekeng Ita Kubiangha welcomed the corps members posted in the state, including those transferred from Lagos State, and described the orientation course as the beginning of a new phase in their lives and service to the nation.

Kubiangha said the NYSC scheme remains a vital instrument for promoting national unity, patriotism and socio‑economic development, urging the corps members to approach the service year with diligence, humility and commitment.

“As Corps Members, you will be called upon to serve as ad‑hoc personnel in the electoral process. While this is a noble national assignment, you are expected to remain neutral, professional and law‑abiding at all times. You must not engage in partisan politics or any activity that could compromise the integrity of the electoral process or your personal safety,” Kubiangha said.

The NYSC coordinator also encouraged the corps members to participate actively in camp activities, embrace the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development programme and distinguish themselves through hard work and community service, noting that the scheme offers various awards to recognise outstanding performance.

A total of 3,000 corps members, comprising 1,400 males and 1,600 females, were deployed for the 2026 Batch B Stream I service year in Osun State.