The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig. Gen. Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, has urged corps members serving in Kogi State to embrace entrepreneurship and explore opportunities that can help them build sustainable sources of income.
Speaking during a working visit to the NYSC Kogi State Secretariat, the DG encouraged corps members to take every legitimate opportunity seriously, stressing that there is dignity in labour.
“I urge you to identify market needs, develop solutions, and create multiple streams of income instead of relying solely on monthly allowances,” he said.
Using the widely discussed “Akara” business as an example, Nafiu advised corps members not to look down on small businesses that have the potential to transform their lives.
He also reminded them that Nigeria’s large population offers enormous opportunities for entrepreneurship and wealth creation, urging them not to despise humble beginnings but to remain focused, innovative and prudent in managing their monthly allowances.
The NYSC boss assured corps members that he would engage the Kogi State Government over the issue of state allowances. He also directed the Kogi State Coordinator to stop posting corps members to private establishments that neither provide accommodation nor pay stipends.
“Corps members are to be mentored and equipped with relevant skills at their places of primary assignment rather than being subjected to exploitation,” he stated.
Nafiu further disclosed that the scheme would introduce improvements to corps members’ welfare, including increased transportation support to orientation camps, better feeding arrangements and improved quality of NYSC kits from next year.
He also commended members of staff for their dedication and commitment to duty, assuring them that the scheme’s management would continue to prioritise their welfare while urging them to maintain professionalism in the discharge of their responsibilities.
