The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, has called on corps members to take full advantage of the Scheme’s Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programmes.
Speaking during a visit to Batch B Stream II corps members at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Iseyin, Oyo State, on Saturday, Nafiu explained that SAED was created to equip young graduates with practical skills that can help them avoid the frustration of relying solely on white-collar job opportunities after service.
He highlighted the NYSC’s partnerships with banks, the NNPC, and other organisations through signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at providing start-up support and funding for entrepreneurial ventures.
Nafiu encouraged corps members to believe in the country’s potential and make strategic decisions that contribute positively to national development.
“Don’t wait for government. Learn skills during service to help yourself and support others through employment. You are the nation’s future. Nigeria relies on your skills, intellect, and leadership in its journey to greatness,” he said.
He also advised corps members to cultivate a savings culture from their monthly allowances to enable them to start small businesses after completing the programme.
In addition, Nafiu urged participants to respect the culture and values of their host communities and to avoid unauthorised travels and political engagements during their service year.
The NYSC Oyo State Coordinator, Mr. Kayode Peters, expressed appreciation to the state government and other stakeholders for their continuous support. He reaffirmed the staff’s commitment to upholding NYSC’s standards and appealed for improved accommodation facilities at the camp. Peters also assured the Director-General of the team’s dedication, loyalty, and hard work in sustaining the Scheme’s objectives.