The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has warned that organisations which fail to provide adequate welfare for corps members posted to them risk being blacklisted from participating in the scheme.
The Director-General of the NYSC, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, gave the warning during an interactive session with corps members in Lokoja, Kogi State. He said employers can no longer enjoy the services of corps members while neglecting their welfare responsibilities.
According to Nafiu, all public and private organisations that engage corps members must provide basic welfare support, especially accommodation and transportation. He stressed that the NYSC would no longer tolerate employers who fail to meet these obligations.
Employers face sanctions
The NYSC Director-General directed all employers to immediately improve the welfare packages available to corps members under their supervision.
He explained that adequate accommodation and transportation are essential for corps members to perform effectively during their service year. He added that these provisions should no longer be treated as optional benefits.
Nafiu warned that organisations that ignore the directive would face sanctions.
According to him, the NYSC is prepared to blacklist defaulting employers and stop posting corps members to such organisations in future deployments.
He noted that the decision forms part of the Scheme’s renewed commitment to protecting the welfare and dignity of corps members across the country.
FG reaffirms commitment to corps members
The Director-General assured corps members that the Federal Government remains committed to protecting their welfare throughout the one-year national service.
He said government would continue introducing policies aimed at improving their safety, working conditions and overall service experience.
Nafiu also appealed to state governments, local government councils and other stakeholders to complement the Federal Government’s efforts. He urged them to create a more conducive environment for corps members serving in their communities.
According to him, meaningful collaboration among governments, employers and host communities is necessary to make the NYSC scheme more rewarding for participants.
Corps members advised to stay security conscious
Speaking on security, Nafiu urged corps members to remain alert wherever they are posted.
He encouraged them to promptly report suspicious activities or security concerns to the appropriate authorities instead of taking unnecessary risks.
He reminded them that security remains a collective responsibility and advised them to avoid situations that could expose them to danger.
The NYSC boss also challenged corps members to maintain discipline, professionalism and integrity throughout their service year.
He said every corps member represents not only the NYSC but also their family, alma mater and the nation. Therefore, he urged them to conduct themselves responsibly in their places of primary assignment and within their host communities.
Make the most of SAED
Nafiu encouraged corps members to take full advantage of the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme.
He described the initiative as one of the Scheme’s most valuable platforms for preparing young graduates for life after national service.
According to him, corps members should acquire practical and entrepreneurial skills capable of generating sustainable income after completing the programme.
He also advised them to identify business opportunities within their host communities instead of depending entirely on white-collar jobs.
Furthermore, he urged them to manage their monthly allowances wisely and cultivate a savings culture that would support their long-term financial stability.
Kogi NYSC plans employers’ workshop
Earlier, the NYSC Coordinator in Kogi State, Mrs. Tochi Chika Chris-Moneke, commended the Director-General for visiting the orientation camp.
She described the visit as another demonstration of the management’s commitment to the welfare, security and professional development of corps members and NYSC staff.
Chris-Moneke disclosed that the state secretariat was finalising arrangements for a Corps Employers’ Workshop. She said the programme would strengthen collaboration between the NYSC and employers while reminding organisations of their responsibilities to corps members.
She also announced plans for the Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers (HIRD) programme.
According to her, the initiative will expand the Scheme’s community development activities by providing healthcare outreach and other essential services to rural communities across Kogi State.
NYSC seeks stronger collaboration
Nafiu reiterated that the success of the NYSC depends on the collective efforts of governments, employers and host communities.
He maintained that corps members deserve adequate welfare, security and support throughout their service year.
The Director-General expressed confidence that stronger cooperation among stakeholders would improve the national service experience. He added that it would also enable corps members to contribute more effectively to national development.
