The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has expressed alarm over the increasing rejection of corps members by employers at their assigned places of primary assignment, warning that the trend jeopardises the core objectives of the programme and hinders youth development.
During the 2025 Annual NYSC Corps Employers’ Workshop held in Jos, Plateau State, NYSC Director-General Brigadier-General Olakunle Nafiu, represented by Deputy Director for the North-Central Zone, Mrs. Gbamisola Salami, said employers have a crucial role in helping corps members acquire professional skills and practical experience during their service year.
Nafiu stressed that employer rejections, which the NYSC has frequently uncovered during quarterly inspections, deprive corps members of the opportunity to grow professionally. He identified common issues, including employers’ failure to formally request corps members, lack of welfare provision as required by law, and in some cases, mistreatment of the assigned individuals.
He appealed to employers to create a welcoming and supportive work environment, noting that corps members face numerous challenges and require empathy and understanding to thrive. According to Nafiu, strong partnerships between the NYSC and corps employers are vital to achieving the scheme’s mission of fostering national unity and youth empowerment.
He also acknowledged and thanked organisations that have remained committed to the NYSC over the years, saying their support has significantly contributed to the success of the programme.
Earlier, Plateau State NYSC Coordinator, Mr. Jonathan Yavala, explained that the workshop aimed to strengthen collaboration between the NYSC and employers, address communication gaps, and improve corps member deployment and placement. He noted that employers act not only as supervisors but also as mentors and guides who help shape the future of Nigerian youth.
The Plateau State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mr. Musa Ashoms, who also chairs the NYSC Governing Board in the state, declared the workshop open. He commended the NYSC for organising the event and emphasised that corps members should not just be introduced to workplaces but supported in making meaningful contributions to national development.
