The Kwara State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has issued a strong advisory to the newly deployed members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in the state, urging them to prioritize their safety by avoiding night travels.

The Governor gave this counsel on Monday while officially declaring the Batch A Stream 1 orientation course open at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Yikpata, Edu Local Government Area. He emphasized that while the government remains committed to protecting citizens, security must be viewed as a collective responsibility.

"I therefore advise you to remain security-conscious at all times," the Governor stated. "Avoid night travels and strictly adhere to the NYSC guidelines on movement and posting, so that everyone invested in your success including yourselves, your families, and the nation can be assured of your safety."

Governor AbdulRazaq congratulated the corps members on completing their academic journeys and being mobilized for the mandatory national service. He challenged them to approach their primary assignments with high levels of patriotism, discipline, and integrity, noting that their contributions are vital to the socio-economic development of the "State of Harmony."

The Governor further reassured the corps members that the state government would continue to provide an enabling environment for them to thrive during their service year, provided they remain vigilant and law-abiding.

Represented by his deputy, Mr Kayode Alabi, the governor urged the corps members to ensure that they leave behind positive and lasting impacts in their primary place of assignment and by extension, their host communities.

He encouraged the youth Corps members to make the service year meaningful by acquiring relevant skills, and upholding the core values of the NYSC scheme.

He commended the state coordinator, Mr. Onifade Joshua, and all officials of the scheme for the successful take off of the orientation course.

"Let me assure you that the Kwara State Government remains fully committed to providing an enabling environment for you to serve effectively. "

The security of lives and property in our state remains a top priority, and we will continue to strengthen our security architecture to ensure the safety of all corps members posted to Kwara State," he assured.

He noted that while government will continue to play its role, everyone must also recognise that security is a collective responsibility.

In his address, the state NYSC coordinator, Mr Olaoluwa Onifade expressed appreciation to the Governor AbdulRazaq for contributing to youth development in the state.

He also thanked the state government for approving the release of the venue for the orientation course, pledging the continued support of the Corps to the development of the state.