The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others”.
— Mahatma Gandhi
In the corridors of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), there are individuals who quietly shape the institution’s public image, ensuring that its story is not only told but told well. One of such individuals is Mrs. Olusoji Olufunso, a Deputy Director in charge of Publicity at the NYSC Headquarters, whose distinguished career comes to a graceful close on April 19, 2025, as she bows out of active service.
Mrs. Olusoji’s career within the NYSC has been marked by professionalism, excellence, and unwavering commitment to communicating the NYSC narrative with clarity, depth, and patriotism. Her work behind the scenes curating, editing, and supervising the flow of official information into the public domain ensured that the image of the Scheme remained credible, consistent, and respected across media platforms.
As the head of Publicity, she not only safeguarded the legacy of the NYSC through thoughtful documentation but also cultivated strong relationships with media professionals. Her openness to collaboration, timely responses, and respectful engagement with journalists earned her a special place in the hearts of many myself included.
“She didn’t just tell the NYSC story she became a part of it, enriching it with grace, commitment, and a quiet strength that will echo long after her exit.”
Mrs. Olusoji is known for her willingness to embrace contrary views and her firm belief in teamwork qualities that endeared her to colleagues across all levels. Her inclusive leadership style created an environment where every team member felt valued, heard, and empowered to contribute. It’s no wonder she will be deeply missed by the entire NYSC Information, Press and Public Relations Department, as well as by journalists and staff who had the privilege of working with her. She has undoubtedly contributed her quota to the growth of the Scheme and to youth development in Nigeria.
As a Reporter and Publisher of Emporium Reporters, I encountered in Mrs. Olusoji not just a seasoned public servant, but a kind-hearted professional who deeply believed in the media’s role in nation-building. Her consistent support for our platform whether by facilitating access to information or providing timely updates on NYSC activities greatly enhanced the quality and accuracy of our reportage. She treated our requests not as burdens, but as opportunities to further the NYSC mandate through informed journalism.
Colleagues often speak of her humility, her keen attention to detail, and her gentle leadership style. She led not with a loud voice, but with a steady sense of duty and a heart committed to service. Even in challenging moments, Mrs. Olusoji remained calm and focused, embodying the core values the NYSC represents.
As she takes a bow from public service, we celebrate a woman who exemplified the best of civil service values. Her legacy will live on not just in the publications and press releases she championed but in the lives of those she mentored, supported, and inspired along the way.
On behalf of the Emporium Reporters family and the broader media community, I say thank you, Mrs. Olusoji Olufunso. Thank you for your service. Thank you for your support. And thank you for reminding us that impact is not always loud it is often found in the quiet, consistent dedication to doing one’s job with grace and excellence.
Happy retirement, and may the next chapter of your life be filled with peace, fulfillment, and continued purpose.
*Lukman Laleye Babalola is the Publisher/CEO, Emporium Reporters Online & Emporium Magazine
