By Boluwaji Obahopo, Lokoja
The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig Gen Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, has charged corps members serving in Kogi State to embrace entrepreneurship, remain diligent, and take advantage of opportunities around them to build sustainable sources of income.
The charge was given during his working visit to the NYSC Kogi State Secretariat yesterday, where he addressed corps members and members of staff.
The DG also makes a commitment to the welfare of corps members and staff, as well as the effective implementation of the scheme’s programmes in the state.
To the corps members, General Nafiu 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.”
Citing the widely discussed “Akara” business as an example, he advised corps members not to underestimate simple ventures capable of transforming their lives.
He further reminded them that Nigeria’s large population presents enormous opportunities for entrepreneurship and wealth creation, urging them not to despise humble beginnings but to remain focused, innovative, and prudent in managing their monthly allowances.
The NYSC boss assured corps members that he would engage the Kogi State Government on the issue of state allowances. He also directed the state coordinator to discontinue posting corps members to private establishments that neither provide accommodation nor pay stipends.
”Corps members are to be mentored and equipped with relevant skills at their places of primary assignment rather than being subjected to exploitation.”
The DG further disclosed that the scheme would introduce significant improvements in corps members’ welfare, including an increase in camp transportation support, enhanced feeding arrangements at orientation camps, and improved quality of NYSC kits from next year.
He also commended members of staff for their dedication and commitment to duty, assuring them that the scheme’s management would continue to prioritise their welfare while urging them to sustain their professionalism in the discharge of their responsibilities.
Earlier, the state coordinator, Mrs Chris-Moneke Chika, described the visit as a demonstration of purposeful leadership, fatherly disposition, and dedication to the welfare of corps members and staff.
She disclosed that Kogi State currently has 3,953 corps members serving across the 21 local government areas, supported by 106 members of staff who remain committed to the ideals and objectives of the scheme.
The State Coordinator eulogised the continuous support of the NYSC National Directorate Headquarters and the Kogi State Government, noting that the favourable environment provided has contributed significantly to the successful implementation of NYSC programmes in the state.
She also informed the Director-General that preparations are in top gear for the forthcoming Corps Employers’ Workshop and the Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers (HIRD).
