The pioneer Chief Executive of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Ahmadu Ali (Rtd), has declared that the scheme remained a permanent and vital institution in Nigeria’s national development, more than five decades after its establishment.
Ali made the assertion while receiving the current Director-General of the NYSC, Olakunle Nafiu, during a courtesy visit to his residence in Abuja.
Reflecting on the scheme’s journey since its inception in 1973, Ali noted that the NYSC has continued to earn the trust and acceptance of Nigerians through its impactful programmes and nationwide presence. He credited the foresight of former Head of State, Yakubu Gowon, for establishing the scheme as a unifying platform for young graduates across the country.
According to him, the NYSC has played a significant role in promoting national unity by enabling participants to serve in states outside their regions of origin, thereby fostering cross-cultural understanding and tolerance. He added that the scheme has helped young Nigerians develop resilience and adaptability by exposing them to diverse environments beyond their comfort zones.
Ali also praised successive administrators of the scheme for sustaining its founding vision, noting that initial resistance from graduates at its inception has since transformed into enthusiasm and anticipation among participants.
In his remarks, the NYSC Director-General, Olakunle Nafiu, said the visit was to honour Ali’s legacy as the pioneer head of the scheme. He acknowledged the strong foundation laid at the early stage of the NYSC, which he said has ensured its continued relevance and stability over the years.
Nafiu commended Ali’s leadership qualities, describing his tenure as instrumental in overcoming the early challenges faced by the scheme and positioning it for long-term success.
The NYSC, established in 1973, remained one of Nigeria’s key nation-building initiatives, aimed at fostering unity and integration among young graduates.
