The Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), has urged members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) deployed to the state to approach their service year with sincerity, selflessness, and an unwavering commitment to the development of their host communities.
Speaking at the official closing ceremony of the 2025 Batch A Stream II orientation course, which held at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Nonwa-Gbam, Tai Local Government Area, Ibas, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government and Chairman of the NYSC State Governing Board, Dr. Ibibia O. Worika, applauded the corps members for their discipline and full engagement throughout the three-week orientation programme.
He noted that the impressive conduct of the corps members during the course was both commendable and encouraging, adding that their participation in drills, lectures, community development activities, and social engagements demonstrated a readiness to serve and contribute meaningfully to nation-building.
Vice Admiral Ibas advised the corps members to always bear in mind the noble objectives of the NYSC Scheme, reminding them that the service year is not just a transition from school to society, but a unique opportunity to positively affect lives across communities. “You owe this nation the duty to serve with selflessness, integrity, and a genuine desire to leave behind legacies that will uplift your host communities and promote unity across ethnic and religious divides,” he stated.
He cautioned them against any actions that could tarnish the image of the NYSC, urging them instead to integrate properly with the people in their places of primary assignment, show respect for local traditions and cultural practices, and uphold values that reflect national unity and good character.
Earlier in his farewell address, the NYSC Rivers State Coordinator, Mr. Moses Oleghe, also charged the outgoing corps members to make the most of their service year by discovering and pursuing their individual passions, building new skills, and embracing every opportunity for growth and service.
Oleghe emphasized that the core essence of the NYSC is to make lasting, positive impacts in the lives of ordinary Nigerians, stressing that the service year could become a springboard for personal and professional development if approached with focus and sincerity.
A total of 2,302 corps members successfully completed the orientation course in Rivers State, comprising 931 males and 1,371 females. These corps members will now proceed to various local government areas across the state for their primary assignments, where they are expected to continue upholding the values of the NYSC and contribute actively to their host communities.