Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has tasked newly deployed corps members with maintaining discipline, integrity and a strong sense of national responsibility throughout their service year, describing young graduates as essential to Nigeria's development agenda.

The charge was delivered at the swearing in ceremony of 2026 Batch B Stream I corps members at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Asaya, Kabba. Governor Ododo was represented at the event by the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon Aridaojo Monday Anyebe.

Addressing the 2,926 corps members deployed to the state, the Governor urged them to conduct themselves with decorum, participate actively in camp activities and uphold values of unity, accountability and service. He noted that the NYSC scheme, established in 1973, has remained a cornerstone of national integration and sustainable development across Nigeria.

"Our administration will continue to work tirelessly to create job opportunities for unemployed youths, while ensuring that the welfare of Corps Members remains a top priority at all times," Governor Ododo stated.

He encouraged the corps members to approach their primary assignment with sincerity and commitment, stressing that the service year presents a rare opportunity to make meaningful contributions to host communities and the broader nation. The Governor further urged them to align with his administration's developmental vision by supporting initiatives aimed at delivering democratic dividends to the people of Kogi State.

Commissioner Anyebe, in his own remarks, reaffirmed the state government's commitment to youth empowerment and development. He urged the corps members to regard their service year as a foundational step toward future leadership and national impact, adding that discipline must be embraced not merely as a camp requirement but as a lifelong principle.

NYSC State Coordinator Mrs Chris Moneke Chika Tochi, who spoke earlier at the ceremony, advised the corps members to adhere strictly to camp rules and regulations, cautioning that violations would not be tolerated. She also appealed for sustained government support to ensure the smooth running of the orientation programme. Governor Ododo commended her alongside other stakeholders for their continued dedication to instilling leadership values in corps members.

The ceremony closed with a collective call for patriotism and a renewed commitment to building a united and progressive Nigeria.