Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has reassured National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members posted to the state of their safety despite the prevailing security challenges affecting parts of the state and northern Nigeria.

Represented by the Commissioner for Youth, Sports Development, and Creativity, Terkimbi Ikyange, the governor gave the assurance during a ceremony on Friday. He emphasized that the state government is actively collaborating with security agencies to ensure a secure environment for corps members throughout their service year.

“While our nation continues to grapple with serious security concerns, Benue State is no exception. However, I want to assure you that we are taking your safety seriously,” Alia stated.
“We have implemented comprehensive protective measures in collaboration with all relevant security outfits to safeguard corps members’ lodges and areas of deployment.”

Governor Alia also urged the new corps members to make the most of the NYSC’s Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme, describing it as a vital path to self-sufficiency and future success. He encouraged them to use their talents in ways that would positively impact national development:

“The gifts and abilities that brought you this far are the same ones that will shape the future of our country.”

During the event, NYSC State Coordinator Mrs. Veronica Garba thanked the Benue State Government and its people for their ongoing support. She encouraged the corps members to fully participate in all four core aspects of the orientation course—physical fitness, intellectual development, recreational activities, and skills training.

The orientation programme officially began with the swearing-in of 1,600 corps members. The ceremony was presided over by Justice Peter Ukande, representing the Chief Judge of Benue State, Justice Maurice Ikpambeae.