By Nkechi Eze
The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, has called on Corps Members to respect and appreciate the cultural values of their host communities as a key component of their service year.
Speaking during a visit to the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Wamakko, Sokoto State, Brigadier General Nafiu encouraged the 2025 Batch ‘C’ Corps Members to use the service year as an opportunity to explore Nigeria’s diverse natural and human resources and understand the values embedded within them.
“You are guests here; therefore, you must respect your hosts. Do not look down on their culture and, please, try and understand why they do certain things,” he advised. The DG also emphasized the importance of forging friendships across ethnic and geographical lines, describing such connections as foundations not only for national unity but also for future business collaborations.
He cautioned, “If you are from the South West and the only friends you make are from the South West, you have wasted this opportunity.” The DG further urged Corps Members to leverage the regional economic strengths of the country, noting that understanding what each zone produces could open natural avenues for inter-regional trade.
Highlighting the role of responsible social media use, Brigadier General Nafiu warned against spreading divisive narratives and urged Corps Members to rely on credible sources of information that promote unity and integration. He also encouraged them to acquire vocational and entrepreneurial skills, practice prudent financial management, and pursue self-employment opportunities as a pathway to financial freedom.
Earlier, the NYSC Sokoto State Coordinator, Alhaji Usman Yaro, informed the DG that the State had registered 1,299 Corps Members, comprising 762 males and 537 females, all actively engaged in camp activities and administration.
The visit reinforced the NYSC’s commitment to promoting cultural integration, national cohesion, and youth empowerment through skills acquisition and meaningful community engagement.
