By Nkechi Eze
The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, has urged Corps Members to see themselves as brothers and sisters and to actively contribute to strengthening the corporate existence of Nigeria, irrespective of their ethnic, religious, or cultural differences.
General Nafiu gave the charge while addressing the 2026 Batch ‘A’ Stream One Corps Members at the NYSC Lagos State Orientation Camp in Iyana-Ipaja.
In an official statement signed by the Director, Information and Public Relations, NYSC, Caroline Embu, the Director-General emphasised that the scheme remains a critical platform for promoting national unity, integration, and peaceful coexistence among young Nigerians.
He advised the Corps Members to remain selfless in their conduct, maximise the numerous opportunities offered during the service year, make new friends, and build enduring relationships that would further cement national cohesion.
“Here seated are future Governors, Senators, Members of State and National Assemblies, Presidents, Vice-Presidents, and Captains of industries, among others,” the DG said.
He also encouraged the young graduates to take full advantage of the social and cultural interactions that come with the Scheme, adding with a lighthearted note that many Nigerians have found life partners during their service year.
“Majority of us got our wives from NYSC, so do not waste the opportunity. Also, respect the culture of the people of Lagos State,” he added.
General Nafiu further advised the Corps Members to begin early preparations for life after national service by acquiring at least one entrepreneurial skill while in camp, stressing that such skills would empower them to become self-reliant and also create employment opportunities for others.
According to him, several financial institutions and development partners are already supporting Corps Members with business financing to encourage youth entrepreneurship.
“We have the Bank of Industry that has set aside Two Billion Naira as business loan for interested Corps Members. We also have Wema Bank, NNPC Foundation, Kudimata, Access Bank, Unity Bank and others who are ready to give you business loans at minimal interest rates,” he disclosed.
Earlier in her remarks, the NYSC Lagos State Coordinator, Mrs. Christiana Salmwang, informed the Director-General that the Corps Members had shown a high level of discipline, enthusiasm, and readiness to serve the nation since their arrival at the Orientation Camp.
She also briefed him that work was progressing steadily at the site of the state’s new Orientation Camp located at Agbowa, Ikorodu.
The visit, according to officials, further underscores the NYSC leadership’s commitment to motivating Corps Members and reinforcing the core ideals of unity, service, and national development.
