The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has announced plans to sanction employers nationwide that fail to provide basic welfare support, including accommodation and transportation, for corps members posted to their organisations.
The Director-General of the scheme, Brig. Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, said organisations that neglect these responsibilities risk being blacklisted from participating in the NYSC programme, as the scheme moves to strengthen the welfare and overall experience of corps members across the country.
Speaking during an interaction with corps members, Nafiu stressed that employers have a critical role to play in ensuring a conducive working environment for young graduates during their one-year national service.
According to him, organisations that benefit from the services of corps members must also fulfil their obligations by providing adequate welfare packages that will enable them to perform effectively.
“Any employer that fails to provide accommodation and transportation for corps members posted to them will be blacklisted from enjoying the services of the NYSC,” he said.
He noted that improving the welfare of corps members would not only enhance productivity but also contribute to a more rewarding national service experience for participants.
The NYSC Director-General also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to the safety and well-being of corps members, assuring them that their welfare remains a priority throughout the service year.
He called on state governments, local government authorities, employers and other stakeholders to complement the government’s efforts by providing the necessary support that would enable the scheme to achieve its objectives.
On security, Nafiu urged corps members to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to relevant security agencies, reminding them that maintaining security requires the collective effort of everyone.
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He further encouraged corps members to uphold the core values of the scheme by remaining disciplined, dedicated and professional throughout their service year, while avoiding actions capable of damaging the image of the NYSC.
Highlighting the importance of entrepreneurship, Nafiu advised participants to take advantage of the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme introduced by the scheme.
He said the initiative offers practical opportunities for corps members to acquire vocational and entrepreneurial skills that can prepare them for self-employment after national service.
He encouraged them to identify viable business opportunities within their host communities and begin building sustainable income streams even before completing the programme.
Recognising the country’s current economic realities, the NYSC boss also urged corps members to cultivate prudent financial habits by managing their monthly allowances responsibly and developing a savings culture that would benefit them after service.
He described the service year as an opportunity for graduates to gain valuable life skills, financial discipline and practical experience that would prepare them for future careers and entrepreneurship.
