NYSC Chief Warns Members Against Sole Dependence on Allowances, Urges Them to Explore Business Ventures

Brigadier General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, the Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps, has urged corps members serving in Kogi State to adopt an entrepreneurial mindset, remain diligent, and capitalize on available opportunities to establish sustainable income streams.

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This charge was delivered during his working visit to the NYSC Kogi State Secretariat, where he addressed corps members and staff, emphasizing the importance of taking initiative and seizing opportunities.

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The Director-General also reaffirmed his commitment to the welfare of corps members and staff, as well as the effective implementation of the scheme's programs in the state, underscoring his dedication to their well-being.

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General Nafiu encouraged corps members to approach every legitimate opportunity with seriousness, emphasizing that dignity is derived from labor, and urged them to identify market needs, develop solutions, and create multiple income streams.

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He cited the "Akara" business as an example, cautioning corps members against underestimating the potential of simple ventures to transform their lives, and reminded them that Nigeria's large population presents vast opportunities for entrepreneurship and wealth creation.

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The NYSC boss advised corps members not to despise humble beginnings, but rather to remain focused, innovative, and prudent in managing their monthly allowances, and assured them that he would engage the Kogi State Government on the issue of state allowances.

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He directed the state coordinator to discontinue posting corps members to private establishments that fail to provide accommodation or pay stipends, emphasizing that corps members should be mentored and equipped with relevant skills at their places of primary assignment.

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The Director-General disclosed that the scheme would introduce significant improvements in corps members' welfare, including increased camp transportation support, enhanced feeding arrangements at orientation camps, and improved quality of NYSC kits from next year.

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He commended members of staff for their dedication and commitment to duty, assuring them that the scheme's management would prioritize their welfare while urging them to sustain their professionalism in the discharge of their responsibilities.

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Mrs Chris-Moneke Chika, the state coordinator, described the Director-General's visit as a demonstration of purposeful leadership, fatherly disposition, and dedication to the welfare of corps members and staff, and disclosed that Kogi State currently has 3,953 corps members serving across 21 local government areas.

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She noted that the state is supported by 106 members of staff who remain committed to the ideals and objectives of the scheme, and eulogized the continuous support of the NYSC National Directorate Headquarters and the Kogi State Government.

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The State Coordinator informed the Director-General that preparations are underway for the forthcoming Corps Employers' Workshop and the Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers, highlighting the favorable environment provided by the government and the NYSC National Directorate Headquarters.