Hon. Akande Appreciates IBSW Corps Members Over Free Medical Outreach

Chairman of Ibadan Southwest Local Government, Honourable Kehinde Adeyemi Akande, has commended the corps members serving in the local government area for organizing a free medical outreach for the benefit of staff of the council.

Polity Reporters gathered that the outreach, which took place at the Mini Mapo Hall within the council premises, is part of the lined-up activities of the Cultural Fiesta organized by the National Youth Service Corps in the local government for Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday of this week and will end next Monday.

In his address, Hon. Akande said the corps members have taken a bold and commendable step by giving back to the society through the outreach, which he said is in consonance with the cardinal pillars of the NYSC programme.

“To make a positive impact by giving back to the society is one of the most commendable aspects of the NYSC,” the Chairman said, as he looked around the setup at the venue housing the medical exercise.

He continued, “This is what true national service represents, where young Nigerians commit their wherewithal to the growth, development and progress of their communities.”

He added, “You have upheld the very ideals upon which the National Youth Service Corps was established, and I am proud that our corps members understand their purpose and are committed to it.”

The Chairman went on to commend the foresight behind the establishment of the NYSC scheme, recalling how it was created to promote unity and prevent a recurrence of the civil unrest that once fractured the nation.

His words,

“This scheme was born out of necessity, and time has proven it to be one of the strongest instruments of national integration since the civil war ended.

“We must continue to preserve this initiative because its impact, especially in grassroots development and unity, cannot be overstated.”

He further affirmed that his administration remains open to collaborating with the NYSC in all its people-focused programmes and community initiatives.

“Our government will always support and welcome programmes that put the people first because that is the essence of leadership.

“Whenever the NYSC comes up with initiatives that touch the lives of our people directly, we will be here to provide all the needed support,” he pledged.

He also used the occasion to communicate immense gratitude to His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, for creating an enabling environment across Oyo State for youths to succeed and for continuously investing in health and human capital development.

He concluded by wishing the corps members a fulfilling and impactful service year, encouraging them to carry the same spirit of excellence into their future endeavours, while reminding them not to rely solely on their certificates, as the world is evolving and degree holders are increasingly being replaced by problem solvers.

In his address, the Zonal Inspector for Ibadan South, Mr Oluajo Olurotimi, appreciated the Chairman and his team for embracing the outreach and showing unflagging support for the corps members.

He explained that the essence of the outreach was to fulfill the NYSC mandate of giving back to the society through purposeful and impactful service.

He added that the free medical outreach demonstrates the extent to which corps members are absorbing the orientation given during their time at the camp, which prepares them to be problem-solvers and agents of change in their host communities by building a nation through grassroots impact.

He encouraged everyone in attendance to take their health seriously, and reminded that while medical professionals can administer care, it is ultimately God who heals.

He ended by commending the corps members for the project, praying that God would reward them abundantly for their sacrificial service to humanity.

Polity Reporters confirmed that following the speech of the ZI, the Chairman proceeded to inspect the various medical services being offered, posed for a group photograph with the management of the scheme, corps members, and then departed for another official engagement.

Meanwhile, several medical tests, and consultations continued for principal members, directors, senior staff of the council, and other corps members who were present at the venue.

One of the council staff who spoke to Polity Reporters said, “This is highly commendable and timely because many of us do not even have the time to go for checkups unless things get critical.”

She continued, “It feels good to see young people thinking beyond themselves and coming to offer these services freely, especially at a time like this.”

A corps member also shared her thoughts, saying, “We are happy to use our skills to help the people in our host community and this gives us a sense of fulfillment.”

She added, “Serving in Ibadan Southwest has been a rewarding experience so far and we are glad the council is receptive and supportive of initiatives like this.”

This news agency further reports that the NYSC Week activities continue tomorrow with a Quiz Competition at Government College Ibadan, followed by a Sports competition the next day, and a grand Cultural Day next Monday at the historic Liberty Stadium.

In attendance at the event were the Secretary of the Local Government, Hon. Adebanjo Sunday Raphael; the Personal Assistant to the Chairman; the Local Government Inspector, Mr Oyeyiola Shola; Assistant LGI; as well as other distinguished personalities whose names are too numerous to mention.

Below are some of the pictures taken: