NYSC Urges Employers to Prioritize Welfare, Safety and Skills Development of Corps Members

By Ogbonnaya Ikokwu On Jul 16, 2026

The National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, has called for stronger collaboration with employers to improve the welfare, safety and professional development of Corps Members as part of efforts to drive youth employment and sustainable economic growth.

The call was made on Tuesday during the 2026 NYSC Corps Employers’ Workshop, held simultaneously across the 36 states and the FCT. In Abia State, stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to creating safer, more productive and rewarding workplaces for Corps Members.

In a keynote address delivered nationwide and read in Abia by the State Coordinator, Alhaji Yunusa Tanimu, the Director General of NYSC, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, said this year’s theme, _”Fine Tuning Stakeholders’ Collaboration to Enhance Corps Members’ Welfare and Workplace Experience,” is timely and strategic.

“The future relevance of the Scheme depends on stronger partnerships among government institutions, employers and host communities,”he said.

Gen. Nafiu noted that while NYSC is responsible for mobilization and deployment, employers play a critical role in shaping the service year through meaningful engagement. He urged organizations to integrate Corps Members into productive work environments with relevant assignments, mentorship and opportunities to acquire practical skills.

He reminded employers of their statutory obligations under the NYSC Act, including provision of accommodation or allowance, transportation support, security, healthcare access where possible, and support for Community Development Service.

“Corps Members’ welfare extends beyond physical needs to include mental wellbeing, professional growth, workplace inclusion and protection from discrimination, exploitation, harassment and abuse,”he added.

The DG further stressed that in today’s digital age, employers must expose Corps Members to leadership opportunities, digital competencies, critical thinking, teamwork and problem-solving to prepare them for future careers.

Abia Government Calls for Dignity and Respect
The Chairman of NYSC Abia State Governing Board and Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, represented by Permanent Secretary Mrs. Jane Maxwell Igwe, urged employers to treat Corps Members with dignity and fairness.

He expressed concern that some workplaces still subject Corps Members to rejection and poor treatment, which undermine productivity.

“Employers should see Corps Members as future leaders deserving of encouragement, mentorship and responsible guidance rather than exploitation,”* he said.

Sir Ananaba reaffirmed Governor Alex Otti’s commitment to improving Corps Members’ welfare in Abia, and reminded employers of their responsibility to provide accommodation, transport, security and additional stipends where applicable.

He also charged Corps Members to reciprocate with diligence, discipline and professionalism, warning against truancy and misuse of phones during work hours.

Earlier, Alhaji Tanimu said the workshop was designed to deepen collaboration and review shared responsibilities for improving the service year experience. He commended employers for their sustained support.

The event featured technical papers on addressing workplace gaps and empowering Corps Members through structured training and mentoring.

Participants from ministries, schools, private organizations and other Corps-employing establishments exchanged ideas on making national service more impactful for graduates, while reinforcing NYSC’s role in promoting national unity and youth development.