By Helen Udo.
The Director General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, has warned that employers who fail to provide adequate welfare for Corps Members risk being blacklisted from participating in the scheme.
Speaking during an interactive session with Corps Members in Lokoja, Kogi State, General Nafiu said organisations that do not provide accommodation and transportation support would no longer enjoy the services of Corps Members.
In a statement signed by Caroline Embu, Director of Information and Public Relations on tuesday in Abuja.
He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring the security and welfare of Corps Members and called on state governments, local councils, and other stakeholders to strengthen their support for the NYSC scheme.
The NYSC Director General stressed that security is everyone’s responsibility, urging Corps Members to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to relevant security agencies.
He advised Corps Members to uphold discipline, remain dedicated to their assigned duties, and avoid misconduct throughout their service year.
General Nafiu reminded them that they represent their families, institutions of graduation, and the NYSC, urging them to conduct themselves in a manner that reflects positively on all three.
He also encouraged Corps Members to actively participate in the post-camp Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme to acquire practical skills for self-reliance.
According to him, embracing entrepreneurship and identifying business opportunities within host communities would enable Corps Members to earn income and build sustainable careers even before completing national service.
Acknowledging the country’s economic challenges, the NYSC boss advised Corps Members to cultivate a savings culture and manage their finances prudently as preparation for future financial stability.
Kogi State NYSC Coordinator, Mrs. Tochi Chika Chris-Moneke, commended the Director-General for the visit, describing it as a demonstration of his commitment to the welfare and security of Corps Members and staff.
She further disclosed that the Kogi State Secretariat is set to organise a Corps Employers’ Workshop and the Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers (HIRD) programme in the coming weeks to enhance collaboration with employers and strengthen community impact.
