National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Director-General, Brigadier-General Yushau Ahmed, has expressed confidence in achieving his five-point policy goals before the end of his tenure. Speaking at the 4th DG’s Community Development Service (CDS) Awards and launch of the 2024 CDS Activities in Abuja, Ahmed highlighted the “steady progress” made on these objectives.
Themed “Excellence in Action: Celebrating NYSC CDS Success Stories,” the event provided a platform to acknowledge outstanding contributions by corps members through community development projects.
Focus on Security, Welfare, and Service Delivery
Brigadier-General Ahmed outlined his five key policy areas:
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Enhancing Security and Welfare of Corps Members and Staff: The NYSC has prioritized the safety and well-being of corps members nationwide. Initiatives include improved accommodation facilities, robust security measures at orientation camps, and healthcare access.
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Engendering Optimal Service Delivery to the Nation: The scheme aims to maximize the impact of corps members’ service on national development. Efforts include fostering skill acquisition programs, aligning corps member placements with national priorities, and promoting entrepreneurship ventures.
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Providing an Enabling Environment for Development and Research for the Advancement of the Scheme: The NYSC is committed to continuous improvement through research and development. This includes collaborating with universities on relevant studies, exploring technological advancements to streamline operations, and fostering innovation within the scheme.
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Strengthening Stakeholders’ Engagement for the Promotion of the Frontiers of the Scheme: The NYSC actively seeks collaboration with various stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector organizations, and civil society groups. This collaborative approach aims to expand the scheme’s reach and effectiveness.
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Promotion of the Spirit of Nationalism and Patriotism: A core objective of the NYSC is to foster national unity and integration. The scheme promotes cultural exchange and understanding through inter-ethnic interactions during the service year.
Celebrating Achievements, Acknowledging Ongoing Efforts
While acknowledging there’s still room for improvement, Ahmed expressed satisfaction with the progress made so far. “I’ve not met up, but I’m making steady progress, and we will continue to do that,” he stated. He emphasized his commitment to achieving all set goals before the end of his term, highlighting that he’s “more than halfway” towards achieving his targets.
The event also served to recognize exceptional contributions by corps members through the presentation of CDS awards. These awards showcase the positive impact of corps members on communities nationwide, underscoring the valuable role the NYSC plays in national development.
Reactions and Looking Ahead
The NYSC’s commitment to progress has been met with positive reactions from stakeholders. Many commend the focus on corps member security and welfare, while others applaud efforts to enhance service delivery and national impact.
Looking ahead, the NYSC remains committed to continuous improvement. Continued collaboration with stakeholders, ongoing research and development, and a focus on corps member well-being will be crucial in achieving the scheme’s full potential.
The NYSC’s dedication to its five-point policy agenda signifies a commitment to a more impactful and efficient scheme. With ongoing progress and a focus on continuous improvement, the NYSC can ensure a brighter future for corps members and a lasting positive impact on national development.
