By Nkechi Eze
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 6 Division of the Nigerian Army and Land Component Commander, Joint Task Force South South, Operation DELTA SAFE (OPDS), Major General Emmanuel Eric Emekah, has reaffirmed the army’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members serving across the Niger Delta region.
He gave this assurance on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, during a courtesy visit by the Director General of NYSC, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, and his team to the Headquarters of the Division in Port Harcourt.
Reflecting on his deep connection with the NYSC, Major General Emekah fondly recalled that one of his most impactful mentors at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Brigadier General Shofoluwe, later became an NYSC Director General. This, he said, makes the scheme feel like home to him.
He commended Brigadier General Nafiu on his recent appointment as DG NYSC, describing it as a perfect fit, likened to “placing a round peg in a round hole.” Having worked with him closely in the past, Major General Emekah expressed full confidence in his ability to deliver on the NYSC mandate, praising his dedication and self-motivation. He also encouraged the DG to maintain strong consultation with his predecessors when necessary, as he steers the scheme forward.
In response, Brigadier General Nafiu expressed his gratitude for the warm reception and congratulated the GOC on his appointment. He acknowledged the steadfast support the NYSC has received from 6 Division, particularly in training and accommodating corps members. He appealed for continued collaboration and assistance from the military to sustain this level of support.
The NYSC DG also highlighted the enduring relevance of the scheme, now over 52 years old, in promoting national unity and integration. He reiterated that Nigerian graduates who completed their degrees before age 30 are eligible to serve in the NYSC, even if they are now over 50 years old, affirming the scheme’s inclusive nature and legal provisions.
Both leaders pledged to deepen the existing partnership between the Army and NYSC in the interest of national cohesion and youth development.
