The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has warned that its personnel are going tough to ensure that only those who are duly qualified are eventually mobilised for the programme.
The NYSC Director-General, Brig Gen YD Ahmed, said this, according to a press statement issued on Thursday by Eddy Megwa, the NYSC Director, Press and Public Relations, stating that the scheme was committed to prosecuting any unqualified individuals caught during registration.
The commitment was disclosed by the DG in his keynote address during the 2024 Batch 'A' Pre-Orientation Workshop held in Abuja.
"I therefore, call on you all to contribute meaningfully as we map out strategies that will enable us achieve positive outcomes,” the DG was quoted.
The statement continued: “Despite our modest achievements in recent times, we must continue to strive for improvement in line with global best practices", the DG said.
“General Ahmed tasked the State Coordinators and other stakeholders to strengthen the security situations in all camp locations, adding that emphasis must be on surveillance of the camps and adjoining areas before and during the exercise.
“He reiterated that the Scheme would continue to explore available avenues for leadership training for the Corps Members, including their involvement in camp administration, especially through membership of committees as well as appointment as Corps Camp Directors, Platoon Leaders among others.
“He added that this will go a long way in instilling confidence in them and also prepare them for future challenges.
“The NYSC Chief Executive enjoined the State Coordinators to take the campaign against night journey to motor parks, transport companies and other relevant stakeholders before the commencement of the Orientation Course.
“The Director, Planning, Research and Statistics, Alhaji Ahmed Wada Ikaka in his welcome address said the Pre-Orientation Workshop is a forum where NYSC Top Management, key camp officials and collaborating agencies converge to review the conduct of previous orientation courses with a view to mapping out strategies for improved performance.”
“He disclosed that the Scheme is working closely with critical stakeholders towards ensuring seamless conduct of the 2024 Batch 'A' Orientation Course nationwide.
“Ikaka added that the forum would assist in coming up with resolutions and strategies for the smooth execution of the forthcoming exercise.
“The workshop with the theme; "Orientation Course: Panacea for Engendering Youth Attitudinal Change and National Development", had participants from the Nigerian Army,
Nigerian Police, Department of State Services, Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre, Federal Fire Service, National Health Insurance Authority. National Drug Law Enforcement Agency among others.”