Reps to MDAs: Stop Rejecting NYSC Members, Put Them to Productive Use

The House of Representatives has called on government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to stop rejecting members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), warning that the practice undermines the objectives of the scheme and results in a waste of public funds.

The resolution followed a motion sponsored by the member representing Southern Ijaw Federal Constituency of Bayelsa State, Rodney Ambaiowei, who expressed concern over the increasing number of government offices turning away corps members posted to them for their mandatory one-year national service.
Ambaiowei noted that the NYSC scheme has over the years contributed significantly to national integration, workforce development and community service. According to him, the programme has enhanced service delivery, promoted inter-ethnic relationships and contributed to local economic development.
The House also expressed concern about the economic implications of the trend, noting that the Federal Government continues to pay stipends to corps members who are not effectively engaged, thereby diminishing the overall value of the programme.
Following the adoption of the motion, lawmakers urged all ministries, departments and agencies, including the National Assembly, to integrate corps members into their operations and develop structured work plans to accommodate them.
The House further mandated its Committee on Youth Development to collaborate with the NYSC Director-General in developing a framework for the improved engagement and effective utilization of corps members during their service year.