TheCable

President Muhammadu Buhari has described the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) as a spectacular initiative.

He said the scheme broadens the horizon of citizens, creates opportunities and enhances understanding of cultural differences.

The president said he always commends Yakubu Gowon for establishing the NYSC in 1973 during his regime as head of state.

Garba Shehu, the president’s senior special assistant on media, said Buhari spoke about the scheme on Tuesday in Daura, Katsina state, when he hosted youth corps members.

The president advised the youth corps members to make the most of the opportunity of travelling around the country, especially in understanding different climates, cultures, languages and outlooks on life.

“Everytime I meet with former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, like recently, I still commend him for the initiative of the NYSC. The NYSC is spectacular in many ways,” he said.

“Some of you have come from Port Harcourt, Lagos and Calabar and you can now feel the heat of Daura and how close it is to the desert.

“I feel very strongly about the NYSC and I am wishing you all the very best.

“I assure you that you will be much better as Nigerians after your experience.”

Buhari gave the corps members two cows from his farm, 20 bags of rice and N1 million.

He enjoined Nigerians to assist security agencies by exposing the bad elements in the society, saying all peace loving individuals must mobilise themselves against the activities of bandits and insurgents.