By Tare Youdeowei

Corps members of the 2016 Batch A Stream 2, have expressed  delight that the news that NYSC would be scrapped, is false. Corps members at the Lagos Orientation camp at Iyana Ipaja, were specifically elated that the Federal Government did not deny them the privilege of   serving their fatherland, as they have been longing for the experience since they gained admission into institutions of higher learning.

Vanguard’s interaction with some of the corps members revealed that many of them have different reasons for wanting NYSC to remain. While some of the corps members expressed delight in leaving their home state to another states, others were particularly happy for putting on the NYSC khaki, describing it as an experience no undergraduate would want to miss.

For Elizabeth Aloko, the NYSC programme has many advantages. According to her, the scheme fosters ethnic unity among members who are from different ethnic groups, as they learn to coexist despite the tribal differences. “NYSC programme has so many advantages  because it creates room for sharing ideas, ethnic relationship, patriotism and discipline among youths.” She said.

On her part, Mrs Amaka Ogbaraka, a corps member at the orientation camp said: “I wasn’t happy when I heard that NYSC had been scrapped because I have been dreaming of serving my nation. NYSC sheme offers me the opportunity to meet  different people and enhance connection. As an industrial chemist, I would like to be posted to where I can practice my field.”

Mr Nosa Eka, also a corp member said “when I heard the news I felt disappointed, however I believed that it was a rumour. Though some people may not agree, but I believe NYSC is there for our benefit. With the new job opportunities government has created in teaching, human resources, agriculture, I believe it will really help us.”

Meanwhile, the NYSC State Coordinator, Mr Cyril Akhanemhe disclosed that a total of 2,470 corps members comprising of 730 males and 1,740 females from various fields of study, registered at the close of registration at 12 midnight of 14th June, 2016.

He said that the orientation course is to instill in corps members, leadership qualities of discipline, perseverance, loyalty, diligence, determination, integrity, courage, efficiency and team work. Akhanemhe urged corps members to key into the skills acquisition and entrepreneurship development and other professional courses.