By Nkechi Eze
Former leaders of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) have called for a renewed emphasis on moral values, responsible citizenship and stronger institutional collaboration to safeguard corps members as the scheme continues to prepare young Nigerians for leadership roles in the country.
The call was made when the 23rd Director General of the scheme, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, paid separate courtesy visits to former NYSC chief executives at their residences in Abuja.
During the visit, a former Chief Executive of the NYSC, Reverend Peter Okuromade, advocated a moral rebirth among corps members, stressing the importance of inculcating sound values in young graduates who are expected to take up leadership responsibilities in the future.
Okuromade, who piloted the affairs of the scheme between January and March 2002, said corps members must be exposed to the ideals of responsible citizenship, particularly during their orientation programmes in camp. According to him, corps members serve as role models to younger generations and therefore must be guided with strong moral principles that will shape their conduct both during and after service.
He also commended Nafiu for his leadership since assuming office as Director General, describing his style as unique and impactful. The former NYSC boss particularly praised Nafiu’s commitment to staff and corps members’ welfare, noting that such dedication is essential for sustaining the relevance and effectiveness of the scheme.
In a related development, another former Director General of the NYSC, Major General Suleiman Kazaure (Rtd), also lauded the scheme’s contributions to national unity, youth empowerment and development during a similar visit by Nafiu.
Kazaure, who served as NYSC helmsman from April 2016 to October 2019, highlighted the programme’s role in fostering national integration, job creation, mentorship and empowerment among Nigerian youths. He, however, urged the current leadership of the scheme to strengthen collaboration with relevant stakeholders, particularly in ensuring the safety of corps members and officials who may serve as ad hoc staff during and after the 2027 general elections.
Assuring the NYSC Director General of his support, Kazaure said he remained available to provide advice and guidance whenever necessary.
“You are doing very well, keep it up. I am proud of you,” Kazaure told Nafiu during the visit.
Responding, Nafiu expressed appreciation to the former NYSC chief executives for their contributions to the growth and achievements recorded by the scheme over the years.
He acknowledged the foundations laid by past leaders and pledged to build on their legacies in order to further strengthen the organisation’s impact on national development.
Nafiu said the scheme would continue to uphold the ideals of service, unity and youth development while ensuring that the welfare and safety of corps members remain a top priority.
