The Abia State Government has issued a strong warning to employers in the state against the exploitation of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, condemning the use of corps members as cheap labour under the guise of national service.
This warning was delivered by the Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Mr. Nwaobilor Ananaba, during the opening ceremony of the 2025 NYSC/Corps Employers Stakeholders Workshop held in Umuahia. Ananaba, who also serves as Chairman of the NYSC State Governing Board, was represented at the event by Mr. Eric Asomugha, a senior official in the ministry.
He called on employers to treat corps members with dignity and compassion, likening them to their own children or siblings. He expressed concern that some employers who were treated with respect during their own service years now subject corps members to humiliating conditions and rejection.
Ananaba reiterated the state government’s commitment to improving the welfare of corps members posted to Abia, stating that their living and working conditions directly impact their performance and productivity. He affirmed that the government is determined to create an enabling environment where corps members can thrive and contribute meaningfully.
In a keynote address, the Director-General of the NYSC, Brigadier-General Olakunle Nafiu, who was represented by Mrs. Calista Okafor of the NYSC Area Office, said the workshop offered a platform for engagement between corps employers and the scheme’s leadership. He urged employers to prioritise corps members’ welfare, including the provision of transportation and safe work environments, and encouraged all stakeholders to view their involvement as a patriotic duty.
Also speaking, the State Coordinator of the NYSC, Mrs. Gladys Adama, stated that the purpose of the workshop was to educate corps employers and stakeholders on how best to support the wellbeing of corps members to maximise their contributions. She appreciated the state government’s support and commitment to providing favourable conditions for corps members.
The event featured two paper presentations and group discussions. Participants were divided into three groups to identify issues, share insights, and produce practical resolutions to enhance the NYSC-employer partnership. The workshop was held under the theme: “Strengthening NYSC/Corps Employers’ Partnership for Improved Mutual Benefit.”
