In a grand gesture of support for the youth, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has announced a remarkable financial and employment package for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members in the state.
Speaking as a special guest at the NYSC Passing-Out Parade/Closing Ceremony for the 2024 Batch ‘B’ Stream I Corps Members at the NYSC Orientation Camp in Iyana Ipaja, Sanwo-Olu pledged N100,000 to each Corps member.
The governor assured that this sum would be directly transferred to their bank accounts next week.
Furthermore, Sanwo-Olu promised automatic employment in the Lagos Public Service for the top 100 performers among the Corps members of the 2024 Batch ‘B’ Stream I.
Sanwo-Olu’s commitment didn’t stop there. He announced a N5 billion donation for the construction of a permanent site for the NYSC Orientation Camp in Lagos, a gesture aimed at improving the infrastructure for future Corps members. Additionally, he pledged N100 million to support the Scheme’s staff and donated a 32-seater Hyundai bus.
The NYSC, established during the military regime of Yakubu Gowon, is a mandatory post-tertiary scheme designed to “reconstruct, reconcile and rebuild the country after the Nigerian Civil War.” Currently, Corps members receive a monthly allowance of N33,000, which is typically adjusted following increments in the national minimum wage.
The governor’s announcements were met with overwhelming approval and gratitude from the public.
Many took to social media to express their admiration for Sanwo-Olu’s dedication to youth empowerment and state development.
Olori Olagunjoye Helen praised the governor’s commitment to excellence, saying, “Lagos state is known for excellence. Mr. Governor, may God continue to strengthen you. Some state governors do not go to the orientation camps to identify with the youths.”
Similarly, Akobada Ayodeji S expressed heartfelt thanks: “Mr. Governor, thank you, sir. We really appreciate you always. Igbega ilu Eko lo jewa logun itesiwa ilu Eko. Thanks, sir.”
Junoke Ayanfe Oluwa Nimi highlighted Lagos’s consistent support for the NYSC, reminiscing, “When I brag about my state, some others will be beefing. Eko is simply the best. Thank you, Mr. Governor, for your kindness and compassion. Incidentally, President Tinubu was the Governor when I was at Iyana Ipaja, and his office constantly sent cows and other foodstuff to the camp. God bless Lagos, God bless Mr. Tinubu, God bless Mr. Sanwo-Olu, and may Nigeria be great once again.”
For Oluwadamilare Onaneye, the initiative was a step towards transforming Lagos: “Thank you, Mr. Governor. I think this is a beautiful initiative, and many more initiatives of this kind will change the narrative and transform Lagos into the city of our dreams.”
Adeshina Isreal echoed this sentiment, commending the governor’s commitment: “Well done, Your Excellency, Mr. Governor. Very commendable commitment indeed. Lagos is indeed a trailblazer. This is an excellent report worthy of emulation by other states. Well done, sir.”
Gabriel Classic also said, “Honestly, sir, I will give you my 100% support if you come out for the presidency. I’ve never seen a man like you, sir. Your Excellency, please forgive my question—do you rest at all? Because you’re always busy. Wow. You’re amazing, sir.”
“Each Corps member getting 100,000 Naira. Thank you, Mr. Governor. On behalf of the sane and grateful youths, thank you. This is the real meaning of ‘May Nigeria happen to you.’ Nigeria is BLESSED. Nigeria can never be finished. Nigeria is EMPOWERING. Well done, sir. Together we will build the MOST PROSPEROUS Nigeria in this generation.” Ijelu Oluwashegun thanked the governor.
Sarumi Qoseem also praised the governor’s efforts: “Since our intellectual and blessed governor took office in Lagos, I just love him. He did what he could and initiated mercy projects for citizens and others. I pray for mercy and prosperity for you, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu. You will live long and gain more wisdom. I just love your hard work and rational thinking. God bless you for me.”
