The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Ekiti State, has called on corps employers and other stakeholders to further strengthen the welfare, mentorship, and professional development of corps members through sustained collaboration and support.
Speaking at the 2026 Corps Employers’ Workshop, the State Coordinator, Alhaji Riko Abdullahi Shuaibu, expressed profound appreciation to corps employers for their unwavering commitment to the objectives of the Scheme. He commended their openness and consistent partnership, noting that their support has continued to enhance the growth, productivity, and overall development of corps members serving in the state.
The Director-General of NYSC, Brigadier General O.O. Nafiu, who was represented by the Director, South-West Area Office I, Mrs. Abiodun Olubukola, described the annual workshop as a vital platform for strengthening the relationship between the NYSC and corps employers. She noted that the forum provides an opportunity to address emerging challenges, exchange ideas, and improve service delivery for the benefit of both corps members and their employers.
In the keynote address, participants were reminded of the critical role corps employers play in shaping the service year experience of corps members. Employers were encouraged to provide effective supervision, sound mentorship, and opportunities for professional growth, emphasizing that corps members who receive adequate guidance and support are more committed, productive, and valuable to their organizations and the nation.
The workshop also highlighted the statutory responsibilities of corps employers regarding the welfare of corps members. Employers were urged to provide suitable accommodation or housing allowance where necessary, ensure the safety of corps members’ lives and property, and create a secure, healthy, and conducive working environment that promotes their physical and emotional well-being.
Furthermore, participants stressed the importance of providing internet connectivity within workplaces to facilitate seamless communication with NYSC officials and easy access to the NYSC portal. Employers were also advised to assign experienced officers to supervise corps members, provide regular guidance, and monitor their performance at their various Places of Primary Assignment.
Corps employers were equally encouraged to support corps members’ participation in Community Development Service (CDS) activities and facilitate their involvement in the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme, thereby equipping them with practical skills for self-reliance beyond the service year.
In his remarks, the incoming State Coordinator, Mr. Ige Adeola emphasized the need for employers to embrace technology by reducing paperwork and maintaining regular communication with Local Government Inspectors (LGIs). He also stressed the importance of fostering mutual respect and cordial working relationships between corps members and their employers.
Employers were further advised to properly document the performance of corps members under their supervision and issue recommendation letters to deserving corps members at the completion of their service year, in recognition of their diligence, dedication, and contributions to their organizations.
The workshop concluded with renewed commitments from corps employers and other stakeholders to continue partnering with the NYSC in promoting the welfare, development, and effective utilization of corps members, while ensuring that the objectives of the Scheme are sustainably achieved for national development.
