NYSC warns employers over failure to provide accommodation for corps members

NYSC warns employers over failure to provide accommodation for corps members

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has announced that employers who fail to provide accommodation and transportation for corps members posted to their organisations will be blacklisted from participating in the scheme.

The warning was issued by the Director-General of the NYSC, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, during an interactive session with corps members in Kogi State as part of his working visit to assess their welfare, security and the implementation of the national service programme.

According to a statement released by the NYSC on Tuesday, Nafiu said organisations that neglect their welfare obligations would no longer enjoy the privilege of having corps members posted to them.

“Any employer who did not provide accommodation and transportation for Corps Members would be blacklisted from enjoying Corps services,” the Director-General said.

He explained that employers have a responsibility to create a conducive environment for corps members by providing decent accommodation, transportation where necessary and adequate welfare support throughout their service year.

According to him, improving the welfare of corps members would not only boost their morale but also enhance productivity, commitment and overall service delivery at their places of primary assignment.

The NYSC Director-General reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to the safety, security and welfare of corps members across the country.

He assured participants that the scheme would continue working closely with security agencies, state governments and other stakeholders to ensure a safe and enabling environment for national service.

“The Federal Government is resolutely committed to your security and welfare,” Nafiu said.

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He appealed to state governments, local government councils, employers and community leaders to strengthen their support for the NYSC by providing the necessary facilities and resources that would enable corps members to perform their responsibilities effectively.

Nafiu also reminded corps members that security is a shared responsibility, urging them to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities or security threats to relevant authorities.

He advised them to remain disciplined, dedicated to duty and avoid actions capable of tarnishing the image and reputation of the NYSC.

The Director-General further encouraged corps members to take advantage of the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme, describing it as one of the most important initiatives introduced by the scheme to equip graduates with practical skills for self-employment and wealth creation.

He urged corps members to identify business opportunities within their host communities and begin developing sustainable sources of income during their service year.

“Be proactive, identify business opportunities within your host communities, and start making some money for yourselves even now,” he said.

Against the backdrop of Nigeria’s prevailing economic challenges, Nafiu also encouraged corps members to cultivate a savings culture and develop prudent financial management habits.

According to him, the service year should serve as an opportunity for young graduates to build financial discipline and prepare for life after the NYSC programme.

“Take your service year as a training ground for future financial management by managing your finances wisely,” he added.

Earlier, the NYSC Coordinator in Kogi State, Mrs Tochi Chika Chris-Moneke, commended the Director-General for the visit, describing it as a demonstration of his commitment to the welfare and security of corps members and NYSC staff.

She disclosed that the state secretariat was planning to organise a Corps Employers’ Workshop to educate employers on their responsibilities under the NYSC scheme and improve compliance with welfare standards.

Chris-Moneke also announced plans to hold the Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers (HIRD) programme in the coming weeks to expand healthcare services to underserved communities across the state.

Under the NYSC Act and the scheme’s operational guidelines, employers are expected to provide suitable accommodation where available or assist corps members in securing accommodation, while also ensuring a safe, supportive and conducive working environment.

The latest directive signals the NYSC’s renewed determination to strengthen compliance with these welfare obligations, improve the living and working conditions of corps members and enhance the overall effectiveness of the national service scheme across Nigeria.

NYSC warns employers over failure to provide accommodation for corps members