National Commandant of Peace Corps of Nigeria Calls for Youth Involvement in Nation-Building
From Our Correspondent
The National Commandant of the Peace Corps of Nigeria (PCN), Ambassador Dickson Akoh, has stated that the rising rate of crime in the nation is linked to the lack of employment and empowerment opportunities for the youth.
Ambassador Akoh made this remark during an interview with newsmen in Minna while visiting the Mokwa local government council chairman to express condolences over the passing of his father.
He emphasized that the Nigerian Peace Corps, if given the necessary attention, could serve as a valuable tool for addressing the employment gap and fostering national cohesion.
In reference to legislative progress, the Ambassador noted that during the eighth and ninth assemblies, the Peace Corps bill was passed and sent to President Muhammadu Buhari for his approval. However, due to some errors in the bill and the economic recession affecting the country, the President indicated that there were no funds available to support the establishment of a new agency, which led to the bill not being assented to by him before the expiration of his administration.
He further explained that in the tenth Assembly, the bill was recommitted by the House of Representatives and transmitted to the Senate in March of the previous year.
Ambassador Akoh stated that only one more step is needed for a motion for concurrence to be moved, after which the bill will be ready for the President’s approval. He remarked, “Nothing good comes easy; no matter how long it takes, there will be light at the end of the tunnel. The bill will eventually see the light of day.”
The National Commandant urged the men and officers of the Corps to remain patient and continue to contribute positively toward the passage of the bill, stressing that committed members will be recognized and rewarded.
Additionally, Ambassador Akoh praised the developmental strides of Governor Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State, describing them as a turning point and highlighting the importance of youth support and engagement in these initiatives to drive progress.
