By Peter Omopo
The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, has charged corps members to contribute to strengthening Nigeria’s unity by embracing one another as brothers and sisters, irrespective of ethnic, religious, or cultural differences.
General Nafiu made the call while addressing the 2026 Batch ‘A’ Stream One corps members at the NYSC Lagos State Orientation Camp in Iyana-Ipaja on Friday.
He urged the corps members to remain selfless throughout their service year, make the most of the opportunities available during national service, and build friendships and relationships that would promote national integration and cohesion.
Describing the corps members as future leaders, the NYSC boss said the gathering included potential governors, senators, lawmakers, captains of industry, as well as future presidents and vice-presidents of the country. He also encouraged them not to waste the opportunity of the service year, noting that many Nigerians have formed lasting personal relationships through the scheme. He further advised them to respect the culture and traditions of their host communities, particularly in Lagos State.
General Nafiu also tasked the corps members to prepare for life after service by acquiring at least one entrepreneurial skill during the orientation course. According to him, this would help them become self-reliant and create employment opportunities for others.
He disclosed that the Bank of Industry has set aside N2 billion as business loans for interested corps members, adding that other financial institutions, including Wema Bank, NNPC Foundation, Kudimata, Access Bank and Unity Bank, are also ready to provide business loans at minimal interest rates.
Earlier, the NYSC Lagos State Coordinator, Mrs Christiana Salmwang, informed the Director-General that the corps members had shown readiness to serve the nation since their arrival at the orientation camp. She also revealed that work was progressing steadily at the site of the state’s new NYSC orientation camp in Agbowa, Ikorodu.
