Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has advised over 1,471 National Youth Service Corps members deployed to the state to steer clear of violence and avoid associations with individuals or groups that promote division and unrest.
The governor urged the corps members to instead align themselves with patriotic Nigerians committed to peace, unity, and national development.
He gave the charge on Monday during the swearing-in ceremony of the 2026 Batch B Stream 1 corps members, where he was represented by the Commissioner for Youth Development.
Describing the corps members as key participants in the Nigerian project, Eno encouraged them to play active roles in fostering understanding among the diverse ethnic groups in Akwa Ibom State and to help bridge social divides.
He assured them of his administration’s commitment to their safety and welfare throughout their service year, noting that adequate measures would be sustained to protect both corps members and residents across the state.
The governor also cautioned them against being influenced by individuals who promote violence or disunity, stressing that their contributions should support nation-building and positive change.
He further encouraged the youths to make use of the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme to acquire practical skills, emphasizing the importance of self-reliance in the face of limited job opportunities.
According to him, corps members must begin to see themselves as potential job creators rather than job seekers, and should use the service year to develop creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurial capacity.
The State Commissioner for Youth Development also urged the corps members to actively participate in community development initiatives, particularly in rural areas, where their impact is most needed.
Meanwhile, the State Coordinator of the NYSC drew attention to infrastructural challenges at the orientation camp and appealed for improvements to enhance the welfare of participants.
The Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, represented by a High Court judge, administered the oath of allegiance to the corps members, officially inducting them into the national service programme.