From Okwe Obi, Abuja
A former Chairman of the Special Presidential Investigation Panel for the Recovery of Public Property, Okoi Obono-Obla, has proposed a 2-year extension of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), as opposed to the current one-year mandatory service.
This is even as he observed that the current structure of the NYSC, established over five decades ago, has served its purpose of fostering unity and national integration.
He made this statement when leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) converged in Abuja to celebrate the appointment of Hilliard Eta as the Chairman of the Governing Board of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) by President Bola Tinubu.
He said: “At a time when the nation faces serious security challenges, the NYSC can play a pivotal role in combating insurgency and fostering discipline among Nigerian youths.
“Transforming it into a full two-year military service programme will equip participants with the necessary skills for national defence and provide a strong foundation for addressing the growing threats of insecurity,” Obono-Obla stated.
Obono-Obla emphasised that this reform would not only prepare youths for active involvement in national security but also instil a sense of patriotism, discipline, and civic responsibility.
He further noted that such a shift could significantly reduce youth restiveness, channeling their energy towards productive endeavours that contribute to national development.
He urged policymakers to take proactive steps in restructuring the NYSC to meet the current demands of the nation, stating, “We need bold and innovative reforms to ensure the NYSC continues to serve as a vital tool for national unity, security, and development.”
However, National Youth Leader Dayo Israel, who was present at the occasion, called on the Governing Board Chairman to ensure that Youth Corps Members are paid the minimum wage and other wages that would positively affect their lives.
According to him, the NYSC Governing Board Chairman is the leader of the next generation.
On his part, Eta expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for deeming him worthy to serve in that capacity.
He assured Nigerians that he would bring his knowledge and experience to bear to enhance the performance of the Corps.
Among the former APC National Working Committee and National Executive Committee members present were: Hon. Adamu Fanda (former National Treasurer), Hon. Emma Ibediro (former National Organising Secretary), and Prophet Jones Erue (former APC Delta State Chairman).