Governor Liyel Imoke of Cross River State has lauded the National Youth Service Corps scheme saying it has survived all odds since its inception in 1973 to the level that it has gained international recognitions.
This was contained in a speech he delivered during the passing out ceremony of 2012 Batch ‘B’ Corps members on the 6th of June, 2013, at the Pavilion of the University of Calabar. The Governor, who was represented by his deputy, Barrister Efiok Cobham, said the scheme clocked 40 years on the 22nd of May, 2013. He said it was imperative to evaluate the performance of the programme and to re-invigorate and further promote those virtues that have brought the scheme to prominence and endeared it to many people in Nigeria and beyond.
The Commissioner for Youth & Sports Development who is also the Chairman, NYSC Governing Board, Mr. Patrick Ugbe, on behalf of the State Governing Board congratulated the out-going 2012 Batch ‘B’ set and commended them for loyal service to the development of Nigeria in Cross River State.
He said, the State Governing Board will continue to do her best in recommending the very exceptional corps members into the service of Government and private enterprises all over the nation and congratulated those who have taken the bull by the horn by venturing into self employment.
The Commissioner enumerated the success recorded by host communities and was particularly proud of Okambi community in Obudu for bestowing chieftaincy titles on corps members to prove that the State embraces everyone for growth and development. Similarly, the NYSC Coordinator, Mr. Nkereke Ibangha advised the corps members and encouraged them to key into Government initiative at every level to themselves, independent entrepreneurs and employers of labour and not job seekers.
The event was attended by the Governor, Senator Liyel Imoke and State Executive Council members, service chiefs and the Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof James Epoke.
