Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu on Thursday formally assumed office as the 23rd director-general of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), pledging to prioritise the welfare of staff and corps members.
Speaking during the handover ceremony in Abuja, Nafiu, who succeeds Brigadier General Yu’shau Ahmed, emphasised his commitment to providing transparent and effective leadership to advance the goals of the NYSC.
Key among his priorities is the enhancement of the job-matching programme for graduates, aimed at facilitating corps members’ entry into the private sector during their service year. He also proposed incentives for employers to retain corps members post-service.
“Under my leadership, the well-being of corps members will always be a top priority,” Nafiu said. “We will work hard to ensure that their service is one of the most memorable experiences of their lives. My team and I shall work tirelessly to enhance camp feeding and hygiene.”
Nafiu acknowledged the pivotal role of the NYSC since its establishment in 1973, describing it as a strategic initiative that has significantly contributed to national unity and socio-cultural integration.
“The scheme has fostered mutual understanding and trust among the people, regardless of origin,” he stated. He further highlighted the impactful contributions of corps members, noting that many rural communities rely on them as educators, health providers, legal advisors, and professionals in various fields.
He called on NYSC staff to serve as role models and support his vision to reposition the scheme to address contemporary societal demands and future challenges.
Outgoing director-general Ahmed praised Nafiu’s appointment, describing it as a testament to his illustrious career and dedication to national service. Ahmed expressed confidence that Nafiu’s leadership would bring a transformative era of innovation and progress to the scheme.
Nafiu holds a master’s degree in international affairs and diplomacy from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and a bachelor of science in geography from the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna. An alumnus of three army war colleges, Nafiu has held various roles within Nigeria and in international peacekeeping missions.
