The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has urged employers nationwide to prioritize the welfare, security, leadership development, and workplace training of corps members to enhance service delivery and professional growth.
The Director-General of NYSC, Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, made the call on Tuesday during the 2026 NYSC Corps Employers’ Workshop, held simultaneously across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
In Abia, Nafiu’s address was delivered by the NYSC State Coordinator, Mr. Yunusa Tanimu.
The workshop, themed “Fine-Tuning Stakeholders’ Collaboration to Enhance Corps Members’ Welfare and Workplace Experience,” focused on strengthening partnerships between the scheme and employers.
Nafiu stated that the workplace remains the primary platform through which corps members gain practical experience and develop professional skills.
He emphasized that the quality of the workplace experience directly affects corps members’ productivity, morale, and perception of the scheme.
He reminded employers of their statutory responsibilities under the NYSC Act, including providing accommodation or allowances in lieu, transportation support, security, and healthcare services.
The Director-General also stressed the importance of releasing corps members for Community Development Service (CDS) activities and other official NYSC programs.
He commended employers who have consistently supported corps members and urged others to create inclusive, conducive workplaces free from discrimination, exploitation, and harassment.
“The welfare of corps members goes beyond physical needs.
It includes their safety, mental well-being, professional development, and sense of belonging,” Nafiu added.
Also speaking, the Abia Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Chief Nwaobilor Ananaba, expressed concern over reports of corps members facing rejection, ridicule, and unethical treatment in some workplaces.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mrs. Jane Igwe, Ananaba urged employers to treat corps members with dignity and recognize them as future leaders.
He reminded employers of their obligation to provide transportation, accommodation, or allowances, as well as monthly stipends to complement the Federal Government’s support.
“The Abia Government, under the leadership of His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti, remains committed to improving the living standards of corps members posted to the state,” he said.
Earlier, Tanimu explained that the workshop aimed to deepen collaboration and develop practical solutions to challenges affecting corps members’ welfare.
He announced that, due to current economic realities, the scheme would no longer accept less than N20,000 as monthly allowance from any employer for a corps member.
“We appeal to all Corps Employers to support this policy in good faith, as it is meant to safeguard the welfare, dignity, and productivity of our corps members,” he stated.
Participants identified delayed stipends, poor accommodation, inadequate mentorship, and workplace disrespect as major challenges facing corps members.
Stakeholders resolved to strengthen collaboration, improve feedback mechanisms, and adopt best practices to make the service year more rewarding and productive for corps members nationwide.
