As part of activities marking the 53rd anniversary of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), corps members in Lagos have embarked on a community service and environmental sanitation exercise to promote cleanliness and public health awareness.

The exercise, which took place yesterday at Arena Market, Oshodi, was carried out by corps members serving under the Oshodi-Isolo Local Council.

The corps members turned out in large numbers to clean strategic areas within and around the market environment as part of efforts to improve sanitation standards.

The sanitation exercise also highlighted the commitment of the scheme to community development and volunteer service, which remain part of the core objectives of the NYSC since its establishment.

Speaking during the exercise, the Local Government Inspector, Oshodi-Isolo Local Government, Omolara Oyerinde, said the activity reflected the values of service and community impact which the NYSC scheme has continued to uphold over the years.

She noted that the sanitation exercise was organised not only to mark the 53rd anniversary of the scheme, but also to encourage residents to maintain a cleaner and healthier environment.

According to her, corps members have continued to play important roles in supporting communities through various development initiatives.

“This exercise is part of our contribution to the community as we celebrate the 53rd anniversary of NYSC. The turnout of corps members today shows their commitment to service, teamwork and community development,” she said.

Also speaking, the Zonal Inspector, Ikeja, Abimbola Yewande, commended the corps members for their participation and dedication throughout the exercise.

She said the NYSC has remained relevant after 53 years because of its continuous contribution to national development and community service across the country.

Yewande urged corps members to continue upholding the ideals of the scheme through impactful activities that positively affect their host communities.

She added that environmental sanitation remains important in improving public health and creating safer surroundings for residents and traders.