By Nkechi Eze
Former Chief Executives of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) have called for a renewed emphasis on moral values, civic responsibility and stakeholder collaboration as part of efforts to strengthen the development and preparedness of Corps Members for leadership roles in Nigeria.
The calls were made during separate courtesy visits by the 23rd NYSC Director General, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, to the residences of two former Directors-General in Abuja.
In a statement signed by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Caroline Embu, former NYSC Chief Executive, Reverend Peter Okuromade, urged the institution to prioritise what he described as a “moral rebirth” for Corps Members, noting that they represent future leaders of the country.
Rev. Okuromade, who led the Scheme between January and March 2002, said Corps Members must be exposed to the ideals of responsible citizenship, particularly during their orientation programme in camp, stressing that their role as models to younger Nigerians makes moral and ethical grounding essential.
He also commended Brigadier General Nafiu for what he described as his strong leadership qualities since assuming office, particularly in the area of staff and Corps Members’ welfare, which he said were commendable and worthy of continued support.
In a related engagement, another former Director-General of the NYSC, Major General Suleiman Kazaure (rtd.), praised the Scheme’s contributions to national unity, development, job creation, youth mentorship and empowerment.
Kazaure, who headed the organisation between April 2016 and October 2019, urged the current leadership to strengthen collaboration with relevant stakeholders to enhance the security of Corps Members and ad-hoc staff, particularly in view of the 2027 general elections.
He assured the current Director-General of his continued support and readiness to provide guidance whenever necessary, while expressing confidence in the current leadership.
“You are doing very well, keep it up. I am proud of you,” he said.
Earlier, Brigadier General Nafiu had commended the former Chief Executives for their contributions to the growth and achievements of the NYSC Scheme, noting that their legacies continue to guide ongoing reforms.
He pledged to build on their accomplishments in advancing the objectives of the Scheme and strengthening its impact on national development and youth engagement.
