NYSC DG urges Corps Members to embrace entrepreneurship, promises welfare improvements

The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig. Gen. Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, has urged corps members serving in Kogi State to embrace entrepreneurship, remain diligent and take advantage of opportunities around them to build sustainable sources of income.

Nafiu gave the charge during a working visit to the NYSC Kogi State Secretariat, where he addressed corps members and members of staff.

The NYSC boss reaffirmed the scheme’s commitment to the welfare of corps members and staff, as well as the effective implementation of its programmes in the state.

Addressing the corps members, he encouraged them to take every legitimate opportunity seriously, stressing that there is dignity in labour.

“I urge you to identify market needs, develop solutions and create multiple streams of income instead of relying solely on monthly allowances,” he said.

Using the widely discussed “Akara” business as an example, Nafiu advised corps members not to underestimate small ventures capable of transforming their lives.

He noted that Nigeria’s large population presents enormous opportunities for entrepreneurship and wealth creation, urging them to remain focused, innovative and prudent in managing their monthly allowances rather than despising humble beginnings.

The Director-General also assured corps members that he would engage the Kogi State Government on the issue of state allowances.

He further directed the NYSC State Coordinator to stop posting corps members to private organisations that neither provide accommodation nor pay stipends.

“Corps members should be mentored and equipped with relevant skills at their places of primary assignment instead of being subjected to exploitation,” he said.

Nafiu disclosed that the scheme would introduce major improvements to corps members’ welfare, including increased transportation support to orientation camps, enhanced feeding arrangements and improved quality of NYSC kits from next year.

He also commended members of staff for their dedication and professionalism, assuring them that the management would continue to prioritise their welfare while encouraging them to sustain their commitment to duty.

Earlier, the Kogi State Coordinator of the scheme, Mrs Chris-Moneke Chika, described the Director-General’s visit as a demonstration of purposeful leadership, fatherly concern and commitment to the welfare of corps members and staff.

She disclosed that Kogi State currently has 3,953 corps members serving across its 21 local government areas, supported by 106 staff members committed to achieving the objectives of the scheme.

Chika also praised the continuous support of the NYSC National Directorate Headquarters and the Kogi State Government, noting that the enabling environment provided has contributed significantly to the successful implementation of NYSC programmes in the state.

She further informed the Director-General that preparations were in top gear for the forthcoming Corps Employers’ Workshop and the Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers (HIRD).