The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and the Association of Corporate Online Editors (ACOE) have agreed to strengthen collaboration in promoting national unity, youth empowerment and responsible journalism.
This commitment was renewed during a courtesy visit by ACOE executives to the NYSC National Directorate Headquarters in Abuja.
Welcoming the delegation on behalf of the NYSC Director-General, Brig General Olakunle Nafiu,the Director of Media, Mr. Emeka Rems Mgbemena, highlighted the indispensable role of communication in advancing the scheme’s mandate. He noted that the NYSC operate a television station, radio service and quarterly publications, added that many of its media staff are members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).
Mgbemena described the NYSC as a “strategic national asset” conceived after the civil war to strengthen unity, cultural understanding and national integration. He explained that the scheme has evolved into a platform for nurturing young entrepreneurs and equipping corps members with practical skills vital to the country’s economic growth.
He urged the media to continue promoting messages that enhance cohesion while avoiding divisive narratives, stressed that constructive feedback from journalists remained crucial to institutional development. He further stated that the NYSC leadership under Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu is committed to transparency, accessibility and a media-friendly approach.
Also speaking, the NYSC Director of Information and Public Relations, Mrs. Caroline Embu, appealed for responsible and verified reporting on NYSC-related issues. She warned that misinformation could harm the credibility of the scheme and assured that her department will continue to operate an open-door policy to support journalists with accurate information.
Earlier, ACOE Chairman, Comrade Sola Akingboye, expressed appreciation for the warm reception and reaffirmed the association’s readiness to deepen cooperation with the Corps. He praised the NYSC’s contribution to national development, especially in fostering unity, cultural integration, discipline and youth empowerment.
Akingboye commended the leadership of Brigadier General Nafiu for championing transparency and corps members’ welfare since assuming office. He also stressed ACOE’s influence in shaping digital narratives, called for a mutually beneficial partnership that would amplify the NYSC’s nation-building efforts.
The visit ended with assurances from both sides to improve collaboration in promoting responsible journalism, national integration and youth development.
NYSC senior officials and members of ACOE’s investiture planning committee were also present at the meeting.
