Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has faulted recent calls for the suspension of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme, but advocated enhanced security measures and increased funding.
Addressing newsmen, yesterday, National Coordinator of HURIWA, Emmanuel Onwubiko, emphasised NYSC’s integral role in shaping national identity, fostering unity and empowering the youth over its five-decade history.
The group categorically rejected the proposition to suspend the NYSC, highlighting its enduring mission to bridge ethnic and cultural gaps among Nigerian youths.
Onwubiko praised NYSC’s achievements, citing millions of Nigerian youths, who emerged as influential professionals, entrepreneurs and leaders.
According to him, the core mandate of the NYSC, which is linked with national development, was stressed as a unifying force that instils discipline, patriotism and a sense of responsibility in the youth.
HURIWA expressed concern that suspending the NYSC would undermine those foundational principles and deprive the nation of a vital institution.
He delved into NYSC’s achievements, both tangible and intangible, noting its significant contributions to socio-economic development.
“The historical context was presented, highlighting the pioneer 2,300 youth corps members from only six universities and contrasting it with the present scenario of an average of 350,000 corps members mobilised yearly,” he noted.
Acknowledging the prevailing security challenges in the country, the group noted the NYSC as a victim, not the cause. It called on the government to implement comprehensive security measures to safeguard all citizens, including NYSC members.
HURIWA called on President Bola Tinubu to expedite the passage of the NYSC Youth Trust Fund.
The proposed fund, derived from one per cent of companies’ profits, aims to scale up the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Department (SAED) of NYSC, dedicated to training corps members for self-reliance after national service.
Additionally, the group highlighted the critical shortfall of teachers in the country, as per the 2018 National Personnel Audit report.
The rights group argued that scrapping the NYSC would be tragic for education in Nigeria due to the invaluable contributions of NYSC teachers.
Onwubiko affirmed HURIWA’s unwavering support for the NYSC and called on the government to address insecurity, create a conducive environment for the NYSC to thrive and preserve its legacy.
