From Femi Folaranmi, Yenagoa
Fifteen corps members out of the 1,831 that participated in the 2021 Batch B, Stream 1 service year have been sanctioned for alleged misconduct in Bayelsa State.
This is even as the Bayelsa State Government has reassured the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) of its continued support for the scheme to achieve its set objectives in the state.
Records made available indicated that seven corps members had their service year extended due to absenteeism while eight others are to start afresh for absconding from the compulsory national assignment.
Governor Douye Diri speaking at the ceremony held at the Peace Park in Yenagoa, the state capital pledged commitment to improved welfare and security of corps members posted to the state for the mandatory one-year service.
Diri, who was represented at the ceremony by his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, said Bayelsa ranks among the best in terms of monthly remuneration and other welfare packages for youth corps members because of the importance the state government accords to the national civic duty.
According to him the NYSC represents the country’s hope for a united, peaceful and egalitarian society as the scheme remains a shining light of the nation, which boasts of highly educated and patriotic youths.
He charged the corps members to remain diligent and patriotic, and to avoid actions that would bring shame to themselves, their families and the NYSC Scheme.
“Our government will accord theNYSC Scheme all the necessary support it needs to achieve the objectives of the scheme, while also giving our commitment to the improved welfare and security of corps members still in service. As you get set to be demobilized from service today, (Thursday), I charge you to remain diligent and patriotic. Avoid any action that will bring shame to your families and the NYSC”.
“Let me assure those of you that wish to stay back in the state that Bayelsa State will continue to be a home for you all. For those of you that will return to your states of residence, I charge you to be good ambassadors of Bayelsa State. Tell your people the good stories of this state that had become your home in the past one year and whenever you have an opportunity of giving back, don’t forget Bayelsa State”, he said.