respect the cultures and traditions of their host communities and avoid social vices, including cybercrime and drug abuse.

He cautioned them against unauthorised journeys and urged them to take advantage of the three-week orientation programme to develop discipline, leadership and entrepreneurial skills.

Olakunle particularly encouraged the corps members to participate actively in the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development programme, noting that opportunities for conventional white-collar employment were limited.

“The white-collar jobs are no longer available. Use this opportunity to learn a skill that will make you self-reliant after service, instead of waiting for government jobs,” he said.

On welfare and security, the NYSC DG assured the corps members that the scheme was working with relevant stakeholders to improve their welfare, safety and the condition of orientation camps nationwide.

During an interactive session, corps members raised concerns about their safety and possible redeployment.

Responding, Olakunle assured them that corps members would not be posted to crisis-prone areas.

He also said the NYSC would not deploy corps members for election duties without adequate security assurances from INEC and relevant security agencies.

“Your safety is our priority. We have a standing Memorandum of Understanding with security agencies for your protection before, during and after any national assignment,” he said.

On their monthly allowance, the DG urged the corps members to manage the N77,000 stipend responsibly by developing the habit of saving and investing.

He also encouraged them to build professional networks during their service year by maintaining useful contacts in their places of primary assignment and host communities, noting that such relationships could provide future opportunities, mentorship and career development.

Earlier, the NYSC Coordinator in Jigawa State, Muhammad Baba, commended the DG for visiting the camp, describing the visit as a morale booster for corps members and camp officials.

Baba said the state had received 1,450 corps members, comprising 720 males and 730 females, adding that they had conducted themselves well and adapted to camp life.

He commended the corps members for their discipline and willingness to contribute to the development of Jigawa State.

Speaking on behalf of the corps members, Miss Gift Okoro thanked the DG for his guidance and assured him that they would remain neutral, law-abiding and committed to serving Nigeria.