15th August, 2017
Jethro Ibileke/Benin
Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has charged corps members serving in the State to embak on developmental projects that will improve their host communities through Community Development Service, CDS.
The governor gave the charge on Tuesday at the closing ceremony of the 2017 batch “A” stream II Orientation Course, at the Temporary Orientation Camp, Okada, in Ovia North-East Local Government Area of the State, where he was represented by his Deputy, Philip Shaibu.
The governor, who said their involvement in developmental projects would encourage the spirit of self-help and patriotism among their host communities, also urged corps members to integrate themselves with the people of the communities and respect their tradition and custom.
“As you go to your places of primary assignment, integrate yourselves with our people, respect our culture. Our people are accommodating and hospitable. You will find your stay with them quite memorable and rewarding.
“Therefore, I charge you to work towards achieving execellence, by contributing to the growth of your host communities, especially through community development service, which at the end of the service year, might qualify you for the State Honour Awards,” he said.
Earlier, while presenting the 1,837 Corps members to Obaseki, the State Coordinator of the National Youth Service Corps, Mr. Abdullahi Yusuf-Baba, said he was pleased to have welcomed them to the State.
He disclosed that the corps members participated actively in all camp activities and were now well equipped for the challenges of the service year.
Yusuf-Baba noted that having been adequately inducted and prepared mentally, that they were prepared to contribute their quota to the development of the state, especially in the areas of education, healthcare and social development.
He further commended the governor for issuing a marching order for the completion of the permanent orientation camp and the renovation of Oredo Zonal Office of the Corps in Benin City.