THE Governor of Benue state, Hyacinth Alia, has pledged the safety and well-being of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members deployed to the state, assuring them of a secure and welcoming environment throughout their service year.
Governor Alia speaking through Dr. Phillip Nongu, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth, Sports, Development and Creativity, made this commitment during the swearing-in ceremony for the 2025 Batch A Stream II corps members.
The event, held at the NYSC orientation camp in Wannune, Tarka Local Government Area, welcomed 1,303 new corps members.
The governor urged the youth to consider Benue their “home away from home” despite ongoing national security concerns, emphasizing that proactive security measures have been implemented in collaboration with various agencies to ensure their safety.
“It is understandable that being in unfamiliar territory may bring some apprehension,” he said. “However, I want to assure you that Benue is safe, and every effort is being made to protect you throughout your stay.”
Governor Alia encouraged the corps members to actively participate in all camp programmes and take their primary assignments seriously, describing them as potential gateways to personal growth and future success.
The NYSC State Coordinator, Veronica Garba, also expressed gratitude for the state government’s support. She urged the corps members to embrace the scheme’s four cardinal programmes—orientation courses, physical and intellectual training, sporting activities, and entrepreneurship development—stressing their importance in preparing them for leadership and self-reliance.
Justice Maurice Ikpambese, represented by Justice J.N. Adagba, administered the oath of allegiance to the corps members.