The Bayelsa State Government has officially transferred the supervision of the National Youth Service Corp (NYSC) scheme from the Office of the Secretary to the State Government to the Ministry of Youth Development. This strategic realignment aims to strengthen youth-focused initiatives and enhance the scheme’s operations within the state.

During the formal introductory meeting held on Thursday, 21st November 2024, at his office, the Honourable Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr. Alfred Kemepado, welcomed the Executive Assistant to the Governor on NYSC Matters, Dr. Wisdom Richard Poyeri, and the NYSC Bayelsa State Management. In his address, the Commissioner emphasized the pivotal role of the NYSC scheme in fostering national unity and youth integration.

He expressed gratitude to God and to His Excellency, the Governor, for facilitating the transition of the scheme to the Ministry of Youth Development noting that the move aligns Bayelsa with the national structure of the NYSC, underscoring the importance of this move in enabling the Ministry to directly supervise and support the activities of corp members serving in Bayelsa State.

Mr. Alfred reassured the NYSC management of the Ministry’s unwavering support, emphasizing that the transition marks the beginning of a stronger partnership. In his words, “Nothing is broken; nothing is missing. Instead, this move enhances the synergy between the NYSC and the Ministry. We are fully committed to collaborating with you to ensure the scheme’s mandate is fulfilled and hat corp members have a meaningful, impactful, and memorable experience, with their welfare and activities reflecting the values and hospitality of our State.

Addressing the call for a functional State Governing Board, the Commissioner underscored the importance of institutionalizing such a structure to enhance the scheme’s effectiveness. He stated, “We will review the necessary documentation and prepare the required communication to ensure the establishment of the board.

The NYSC State Coordinator Mrs. Okpalifo Obiageli in her remarks expressed optimism about the collaboration with the Ministry, highlighting the potential for accelerated progress under its supervision. She reiterated the importance of the governing board and expressed hope that this partnership would address long-standing gaps and drive the scheme toward greater achievements in the State.

The Executive Assistant to the Governor on NYSC Matters, Dr. Wisdom Poyeri commended the State Government’s longstanding support towards the NYSC. This commitment earned Bayelsa State recognition as one of the most NYSC-friendly States during the scheme’s 50^th-anniversary celebration. He expressed optimism that under the proactive leadership of the Honourable Commissioner, the NYSC in Bayelsa State would achieve even greater milestones, positioning the State as a model for NYSC activities nationwide.

The Bayelsa State Government remains committed to fostering youth development through initiatives like the NYSC, ensuring that the scheme thrives as a vehicle for national unity, skill development, and impactful service.