By Nkechi Eze
The Director General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, has called for an enhanced insurance package and improved remuneration for Corps Members deployed as ad-hoc staff during elections.
He made the appeal in Abuja when he hosted the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, alongside some members of his management team at the NYSC National Directorate Headquarters in Maitama.
General Nafiu said the review was necessary given the prevailing economic realities and the need to ensure better welfare for Corps Members who, over the years, have played a critical role in Nigeria’s electoral process.
“Our Corps Members are always eager to contribute their quota to the democratic development of our country. Considering the strategic role they play in elections, there is a need for a more robust insurance package and fair remuneration to encourage and protect them,” he stated.
The NYSC DG also proposed a review of the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two agencies, which clearly outlines their respective responsibilities. He noted that NYSC remains committed to supporting INEC in delivering free, fair, and credible elections.
While commending the longstanding partnership between the corps and the electoral body, General Nafiu described the relationship as “critical and strategic,” emphasising that NYSC will continue to deploy trained and disciplined personnel to support the nation’s democratic journey.
Speaking earlier, INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, praised the contributions of successive batches of Corps Members to the improvement of Nigeria’s electoral process. Represented by the National Commissioner in charge of Electoral Operations, Dr Bala Bila, the INEC boss acknowledged NYSC’s indispensable role in strengthening electoral credibility.
He also disclosed that the current MoU between both agencies is due for renewal in February 2025, expressing confidence that continued collaboration will further enhance the integrity of elections in Nigeria.
