AKINWALE ABOLUWADE
The State Director of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Oyo, Mr. Kayode Ola Peters, has called for sustained dialogue and collaboration between the scheme and corps employers to enhance the effective deployment, welfare, and productive engagement of Corps members across sectors.
Peters made the call on Wednesday during the opening ceremony of the 2025 NYSC Corps Employers’ Workshop held in Ibadan. Themed “Strengthening NYSC/Corps Employers Partnership for Improved Mutual Benefits,” the event brought together stakeholders from government agencies, private organisations, and civil society groups.
“We are particularly delighted to host this important gathering, which remains a strategic platform for deepening the engagement between the NYSC and its invaluable corps employers,” Peters said.
He commended the national leadership of the NYSC, under Brigadier General O. O. Nafiu, for sustaining the workshop as a platform for review, dialogue, and recalibration of shared responsibilities concerning the scheme’s operations.
Describing the theme of the workshop as apt and timely, Peters said the NYSC has over the years proven to be a vital tool for national integration, capacity development, and grassroots transformation. He stressed that the continued success of the scheme rests on the strength of partnerships with corps employers.
“As stakeholders in national development, the task of ensuring that Corps members are properly posted, engaged, mentored and protected cannot be overstated,” he noted. “This workshop offers us all a golden opportunity to evaluate how far we’ve come, identify gaps and chart actionable paths to better collaboration and greater mutual gains—both for Corps members and your organisations.”
While acknowledging the significant contributions of Corps members to nation-building, Peters also pointed out some recurring issues such as underutilisation, poor supervision, lack of welfare support, absenteeism, and misconduct.
“We are not oblivious of certain lapses on both ends,” he said, urging employers to embrace the core values of the NYSC—selfless service, patriotism, integrity, efficiency, commitment, and teamwork.
He maintained that Corps members thrive best in environments that encourage innovation, discipline, and service delivery.
“A well-supported Corps member will not only thrive but will go on to become a lasting asset to any employer and to society at large,” he stated.
Peters concluded by encouraging active participation in the workshop, urging attendees to share ideas openly and contribute meaningfully to the conversations aimed at strengthening the NYSC/employers relationship.
