The Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Senator Professor Stephen Odey, Esq., on Wednesday received the State Coordinator of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Mrs. Oyenuga Mojisola Joke, and members of her management team on a courtesy visit to his office in Calabar.
Welcoming the delegation, Senator Odey expressed delight over the visit and commended the State Coordinator for her dedication, professionalism and unwavering commitment to advancing the objectives of the NYSC Scheme in Cross River State.
Responding to requests presented by the delegation, the Commissioner assured the officials that he would immediately brief the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, on the matters raised for consideration. He expressed confidence that, once approved, the proposals would further enhance the welfare of corps members and consolidate Cross River’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s most hospitable and corps-friendly states.
Senator Odey reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the Cross River State Government to initiatives that promote youth development, educational advancement and national integration, assuring the NYSC of the Ministry of Education’s continued partnership and support.
Earlier, the NYSC State Coordinator, Mrs. Oyenuga Mojisola Joke, thanked the Commissioner for the warm reception and commended the Ministry of Education for its sustained support to the Scheme. She particularly appreciated his role in facilitating improved office accommodation for the NYSC State Secretariat, describing the gesture as a demonstration of the government’s commitment to the welfare and effective administration of the Scheme.
Mrs. Oyenuga explained that the visit was aimed at strengthening the existing cordial relationship between the NYSC and the Ministry of Education. She also invited the Commissioner to the forthcoming NYSC Orientation Course scheduled for August, noting that his presence and words of encouragement would inspire corps members and reinforce their commitment to national service.
Describing Senator Odey as a father figure to young people, the State Coordinator said his interaction with corps members would motivate them to embrace Cross River State, appreciate its peaceful environment and rich cultural heritage, and contribute meaningfully to national development throughout their service year.
As part of the visit, Mrs. Oyenuga presented the Commissioner with a copy of the NYSC Giant Strides publication in recognition of the Scheme’s achievements and its enduring contributions to nation-building.
The courtesy visit ended with both parties reaffirming their commitment to strengthening collaboration in advancing educational development, youth empowerment and the continued success of the National Youth Service Corps Scheme in Cross River State.
By Patricia Ogbeche
