By Miriam Humbe
The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, has reiterated his commitment to preserving and building on the achievements of his predecessors, describing the Scheme’s present successes as products of their dedication, vision and exemplary leadership.
Caroline Embu, the Director, Information and Public Relations disclosed this in a statement signed on Friday.
He gave the assurance during a courtesy visit to the Acting Corps Commander, Nigerian Army Education Corps (NAEC) Brigadier General Yushau Ahmed, in Lagos.
The NYSC Chief Executive explained that reaching out to former Directors General to appreciate their contributions, seek their counsel and tap into their wealth of experience had been a deliberate part of his engagements since assuming office on March 6, 2025.
He described the visit as both a courtesy call and an opportunity to express gratitude for his predecessor’s contributions to the growth and development of the Scheme.
“This is a courtesy call and a thank-you visit at the same time because, after assuming office as the Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps on the 6th of March last year, which incidentally was an exchange of baton between yourself and myself, I decided, after settling down, to visit all living former Directors General. In your case, we have been able to achieve that today,” he said.
General Nafiu noted that the legacies of former Chief Executives remained evident in the Scheme’s operations, adding that their commitment, zeal and passion for the NYSC continued to inspire staff members long after their respective tenures.
“Your legacies are evident in the Scheme today. These achievements were made possible by your commitment, your zeal and your passion for the Scheme, which continue to resonate among our staff even after you left office over a year ago. We are, therefore, here to sincerely appreciate your enormous contributions,” he stated.
He further attributed the national and international recognition enjoyed by the NYSC to the solid foundations laid by successive administrations, particularly in the areas of education, agriculture, rural infrastructure development, healthcare delivery, election administration and youth empowerment through the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) Programme.
The Director-General assured that his administration would consolidate these achievements through innovative initiatives and sustained institutional reforms, while preserving the core values and ideals upon which the Scheme was established.
He emphasised the need to sustain the NYSC’s strategic position as Africa’s largest platform for mobilising young graduates for national development.
Brigadier General Yushau Ahmed expressed appreciation to the NYSC Director General for the visit, describing it as a great honour and a demonstration of respect for the contributions of former leaders.
He wished the NYSC leadership, Management, staff and Corps Members good health, safe travels and success in their various endeavours, particularly as they participate in the ongoing 2026 Batch ‘C’ Stream II Orientation Course.
