NYSC Has Come To Stay, Ahmadu Ali

The pioneer Chief Executive of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Colonel Ahmadu Ali (Rtd), has declared that the scheme remains a permanent and vital institution in Nigeria’s national development.

Ali made the assertion during a visit by the incumbent NYSC Director-General, Brigadier General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, to his Abuja residence.

Reflecting on over five decades of the scheme’s existence, Ali said the NYSC had continued to endear itself to Nigerians through its programmes, services, and nationwide impact, thereby justifying its continued relevance.

He commended former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, for his foresight in establishing the NYSC in 1973, describing it as a visionary initiative that has stood the test of time.

Ali, who served as the first National Director (now Director-General) of the scheme, noted that the NYSC has significantly contributed to national unity by enabling young Nigerians to live and work in parts of the country outside their regions of origin.

According to him, the scheme has helped participants develop resilience and adaptability, while fostering tolerance and mutual understanding among diverse ethnic groups.

He also praised successive managers of the NYSC for sustaining the vision of its founding fathers, expressing pride in how the programme has evolved over the years.

Ali recalled that the scheme initially faced resistance from graduates, who protested its introduction, but noted that such scepticism has since given way to enthusiasm and anticipation among prospective corps members. He pledged continued support and prayers for the scheme’s sustainability.

In his remarks, the NYSC Director General, Brigadier General Nafiu, said the visit was to honour Ali as the pioneer head of the scheme and to acknowledge the solid foundation he laid for its longevity.

Nafiu commended Ali’s administrative competence and leadership in overcoming early challenges, noting that the NYSC remains indebted to his enduring contributions.