…Urges Employers to Create a Supportive Environment for Corps Members
The Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Youth Development and Chairman of the NYSC Governing Board, Mr. Adesola Adedayo, has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to the welfare and safety of Corps Members posted to the state.
Delivering the Governor’s message at the 2025 Corps Employers’ Workshop, held at Hassanat Event Hall, Ado-Ekiti, the Director of Administration and Supplies, Ministry of Youth Development, Mr. Ayodeji Bankole, who stood in for the Commissioner, emphasized the government’s resolve to support the NYSC scheme and ensure a conducive environment for Corps Members.
The event, themed “Strengthening NYSC/Corps Employers Partnership for Improved Mutual Benefits”, was organized by the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) as part of its continuous efforts to foster collaboration between Corps Employers and the NYSC management.
In his goodwill address, the Governor commended the NYSC for its pivotal role in promoting national unity, youth empowerment, and rural development. He described the 2025 Corps Employers’ Workshop as “timely and strategic,” noting that it provides a critical platform for dialogue between NYSC management and Corps Employers—“a vital partnership that shapes the success of the service year.”
Also speaking at the event, the NYSC Ekiti State Coordinator, Alhaji Riko Shuaibu, represented by the Assistant Director, Human Resource Management, Mr. Adejumo S.T., described the workshop as a call to reflect, re-strategize, and recommit to the core values and objectives of the NYSC scheme.
Mr. Adejumo decried the increasing trend of Corps Employers rejecting Corps Members, stating that such actions send damaging signals to young Nigerians, making them feel unwanted or undervalued. He urged employers to desist from aiding Corps Members in evading their primary assignments or absconding from service, describing it as a serious sabotage of a national programme dedicated to youth development and national integration.
The keynote address was delivered by the Director-General of NYSC, Brigadier General O.O. Nafiu, who was represented by the Deputy Director of Operations, NYSC South West Area Office 1, Mr. Ifeanyi Ezeajughu. He emphasized the need for improved relationships between Corps Members and their employers to enhance mutual benefits and program outcomes.
Responding to questions from journalists regarding the potential implementation of state allowances for Corps Members under the Oyebanji-led government, Mr. Ayodeji Bankole assured that the request would be communicated to the Governor and expressed optimism for a favorable response.
The workshop concluded with key resolutions, including the need to address the psychological and emotional challenges faced by Corps Members through improved communication, the provision of accommodation and stipends by employers, adequate orientation, and meaningful engagement of Corps Members in their places of assignment.
The event was graced by notable personalities and speakers who provided valuable insights for both Corps Employers and Corps Members.
