The General Officer Commanding (GOC), 2 Division Nigerian Army (NA), Major General Bamidele Alabi, has said that the security of the National Youth Service Corp (NYSC) Orientation Camp, remains paramount and a must do for the NA. He made the statement on 25th January 2024, during a courtesy visit by the Coordinator, NYSC, Oyo State, Comrade Odoba Abel Oche, at Headquarters 2 Division NA, Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment, Ibadan.
In his further remarks, the GOC emphasized on the relevance of the scheme for national development. He said that the programme is rich and robust; adding that it offers Nigeria’s teeming indergraduate youths, the opportunity to equip themselves with relevant leadership and entrepreneurship skills that would make them self reliant. The impact of the scheme is seen in the society as it offers participants better opportunities to further explore their natural potentials rather than wait for paid jobs which are usually difficult to come bye, he said.
“We see the Corp members as our responsibility. We have certain common goals. The same way the corps members serve the nation, is the the same way we do, though in some specific capacities”, he added.
While stating the purpose for his visit, the NYSC State Coordinator, Comrade Odoba Abel Oche, thanked the GOC, for the cordial relationship his office has always enjoyed from the Division; stating that the scheme is a brain child of the military. In his words, “the role of the NA in Oyo State and the nation at large, cannot be quantified. The history of NYSC will not be complete without recognizing the significant roles the military has played in sustaining the aims and objectives of the scheme.”
Accordingly, the Coordinator, confirmed to the GOC, that his deployments of security personnel and apparatus is effective and has encouraged corps members to travel freely without fear. Parents and family members who set out their children for national service, have remained confident, knowing that the military would provide the needed support and protection. He said his visit to the Chief Tiger, was to appreciate the Division’s commitment to securing all law abiding citizens of the Division. He also thanked the GOC for the high quality of officers and soldiers sent to the Camp; confirming that their level of discipline, civil military relations and dedication to duty is impeccable.
The Commander, 72 Supply and Transport Brigade, Brigadier General GC Nkenke, also used the opportunity to invite the Coordinator and members of his entourage to enroll and become members of the Tiger Golf Club in the Cantonment.
Highlights of the visit was exchange of souvenirs and group photograph.