Sanwo-Olu Urges Corps Members to Champion Socio-Economic Development

The Executive Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has called on newly inducted members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to view their one-year mandatory service not merely as an obligation, but as a unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s socio-economic and political advancement—especially in Lagos State.

This call was made during the official closing ceremony of the 2025 Batch ‘B’ Stream I Orientation Course, held at the NYSC Orientation Camp in Iyana-Ipaja, Lagos.

Represented by the Honorable Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, Governor Sanwo-Olu charged the 2,496 corps members deployed to Lagos—and over 3,000 others dislodged to neighboring states—to embrace their assignments with patriotism, diligence, and a deep sense of purpose.

“Wherever you are posted, I urge you to see your assignment not just as a duty, but as a unique opportunity to contribute to the socio-economic and political development of our dear country, and of Lagos State in particular,” the Governor said.

Sanwo-Olu emphasized the critical roles corps members can play in sectors such as healthcare, education, environmental sustainability, social services, and agriculture, as well as in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He also encouraged them to remain focused, build strong networks, and take full advantage of the **Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme.

“With resilience and creativity, you can become not just job seekers, but job creators,” he added, pointing to entrepreneurship as a key solution to youth unemployment.

Also, speaking at the event, the Lagos State NYSC Coordinator, Mrs. Salmwang C.N, applauded the corps members for their discipline, humility, and active participation in the comprehensive orientation programme, which included paramilitary drills, leadership training, martial arts, and the SAED workshops.

“These young compatriots exhibited a real sense of humility and patriotism. Their selfless participation contributed immensely to the success of this orientation course,” she said.

Mrs. Salmwang also revealed that the corps members had been deployed across all 20 Local Government Areas of Lagos State to serve in vital sectors including education, health, agriculture, and rural infrastructure. She urged them to report to their assigned places of primary assignment promptly and accept their postings in good faith.

“Do not display attitudes that could undermine our efforts aimed at ensuring your well-being,” she warned, while also cautioning against unauthorized travel and misconduct during the service year.

The Governor reaffirmed State Government’s ongoing commitment to support and reward excellence, promising that corps members who distinguish themselves in service to the state will be duly recognized and honoured.

The event concluded with appreciation extended to corporate sponsors, NYSC officials, and all stakeholders who contributed to the successful completion of the orientation exercise.