Oyebanji Tasks Corps Members on Patriotism, National Unity ... as 2,318 corps members register for ongoing 2026 Batch ‘A’ Stream One orientation exercise.

The Governor of Ekiti State, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has charged newly deployed National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members  in   the state to demonstrate patriotism and contribute meaningfully to national development during their service year.

Oyebanji gave the charge during the swearing-in ceremony of the 2026 Batch ‘A’ Stream One corps members at the NYSC Orientation Camp in Ise/Orun/Emure-Ekiti.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the State  Ministry of Youth Development, Mr Olawale Olaleye, the Governor urged the corps members to actively participate in the orientation programme, particularly the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) scheme.

He said the SAED programme would expose them to practical, income-generating skills aimed at making them job creators rather than job seekers.

Oyebanji assured the corps members of the State Government’s commitment to partnering with relevant institutions to provide mentorship and seed funding for viable business ideas.

The Governor added that sacrifices made by the corps members to improve the living conditions of their host communities would be recognised.

He charged them to confront the challenges of the service year with sacrifice, dedication, persistence and humility, while adapting to their new environment and building a solid foundation for an impactful year of service.

Oyebanji said his administration recognised the potential of youths to positively influence their communities within a short period and contribute to placing the nation on the path of greatness.

Earlier, the Ekiti State Coordinator of NYSC, Alhaji Riko Shuaibu, commended the governor for the support extended to the scheme, including ongoing renovations and the construction of a new state secretariat.

Shuaibu said the provision of meal subsidies during orientation courses and the construction of convenience blocks had significantly improved the welfare and working conditions of corps members and staff.

According to him,  2,318 corps members registered for the 2026 Batch ‘A’ Stream One orientation exercise in  the State.

Shuaibu urged the corps members to be agents of positive change by promoting unity, addressing real community needs and leaving lasting impacts through their service year.