Brigadier General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, the newly appointed Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), has officially assumed office with a commitment to implement reforms aimed at improving the welfare and career prospects of corps members.
Nafiu made this pledge during the handover ceremony in Abuja, where he took over from the immediate-past Director-General, Brigadier General Yushau Dogara Ahmed.
President Bola Tinubu had earlier appointed Nafiu as the 23rd Director-General of the NYSC, a scheme established in 1973 to promote national unity and development.
In his address, the new Director-General highlighted the significant role the NYSC has played over the years in fostering national cohesion and providing essential services to communities across Nigeria. He emphasized that corps members often serve as the only available educators, healthcare providers, and legal advisors in rural areas, making their contributions invaluable to national development.
“The corps members are a beacon of hope, inspiration, and assurance of reward for hard work that upcoming generations emulate in many rural communities,” Nafiu stated.
He pledged to prioritize the welfare of corps members, ensuring that their service year is not only impactful but also rewarding in terms of personal and professional growth.
“We will focus on reforms that enhance the welfare and career prospects of our corps members. Their contributions to national development cannot be overstated, and it is our duty to ensure they are well-supported and equipped to excel,” he added.
Nafiu also expressed his commitment to strengthening the NYSC’s existing programs and introducing new initiatives that align with the evolving needs of the nation. He emphasized the importance of equipping corps members with skills that will make them more competitive in the job market and better prepared to contribute to Nigeria’s socio-economic development.
The new Director-General’s appointment comes at a time when the NYSC is seeking to address challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, security concerns, and the need for improved welfare packages for corps members. His leadership is expected to bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to these issues.
As he begins his tenure, Nafiu called for the support of all stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector partners, and host communities, to ensure the success of the NYSC’s mandate.
“The NYSC remains a vital institution in our nation’s quest for unity and development. Together, we can build on the achievements of the past and create a brighter future for our corps members and the nation at large,” he concluded.
