₦airaland Forum

Stakeholders at the recently concluded symposium on the imperatives of an NYSC Trust Fund have expressed delight at the prospects of such a laudable initiative if established. The symposium, which had the theme “Consolidating the gains of the NYSC in Youth Empowerment and National Development in the face of Economic Realities: The Imperatives of a Trust Fund", brought together various stakeholders across the country.
Those interviewed highlighted the necessity of the NYSC Trust Fund in the face of economic realities occasioned by the coronavirus pandemic. A development expert, who pleaded anonymity, stated that the establishment of the NYSC Trust Fund would serve as a critical interventionist vehicle to harness the vast potentials of youths in the country.
“ What we must realize is the huge potentials in the youthful population in Nigeria, and when we have such a vehicle that would harness these potentials, the rational thing to do is to hit the ground running as soon as practicable.”
The Minister of the FCT corroborated this much. He stated that the establishment of the NYSC Trust Fund could not have come at a better time in cognizance that the NYSC can drive Nigeria's economic recovery process, through the empowerment of its teeming youth, given the budding talents at its disposal.
Dr Ifeuko Amadi, a civil society organization representative at the symposium, stated that the NYSC Trust Fund is as exciting and interesting because of the positives that would accrue to the country.
“We must begin to think outside the box in efforts at addressing the myriads of socio-economic challenges in the country. This is no doubt a laudable initiative that could not have come at a better time than now. The prospects are unimaginable, and if properly implemented, it could serve as a model for sustainable growth and development, not just in Nigeria, but across the African continent."
In his remarks, the NYSC DG stated that the NYSC Trust Fund initiative came about after extensive consultations to strengthen the operations of the NYSC, in the same manner, the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, the Police Trust Equipment and the Petroleum Technology Development Trust Fund.
“The NYSCTF, when operational, would help address the infrastructural and other logistics needs that would aid the smooth operations of the scheme, while resources from the Fund would support staff training for higher productivity. “
This view was supported by the vast majority of stakeholders, who commended the NYSC Management for the initiative to propel the economic recovery process in Nigeria. Mr Stanly Anene, a representative of the Youth Empowerment and Development Initiative, stated that the NYSC Trust Fund could bridge the gap in youths' contributions to national development. “The youths are always referred to as the leaders of tomorrow. The youths can be referred to as the nation's backbone and have a higher success rate to change the dynamics to have a new model modification in the society. The youths are needed to serve as the lubricants for wheels of change and the NYSC Trust Fund presents us that unique opportunity to turn things around in the country."
He further added that it was a thing of delight for the establishment of the NYSC Trust Fund and indeed a welcome development.
This was the general view of other stakeholders at the symposium. They opined that the NYSC Trust if established, would add bite to the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development initiative of the NYSC through adequate provision of training facilities and required funds for startups.
The visibly elated stakeholders further emphasized the need for the government to expedite action towards establishing the NYSC Trust Fund. They stated that the benefits of the NYSC Trust Fund could not be overemphasized. Emmanuel Bwala, a youth empowerment advocate, noted that the NYSC Trust Fund is long overdue given the strategic importance of the NYSC in national development.
“The NYSC as a scheme has contributed to nation-building over the years, aside from serving as that vehicle for national integration. Therefore, establishing the NYSC Trust Fund would make the scheme robust in delivery to the national development. It is indeed a well thought out initiative that the government must accord all necessary seriousness.”
It would be recalled that the DG of the NYSC, Brig Gen. Shuaibu Ibrahim, had advocated for the establishment of the NYSC Trust Fund to cater for the financial empowerment of corps members as they pass out of service. He emphasized that the NYSC Trust Fund would help them establish their vocational businesses with the skills they acquired from the NYSC Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development Programme in service.
Also, some stakeholders had lent their support, stating that the establishment of the NYSC Trust Fund would reduce unemployment amongst youths and curb the crime rate in the country.

The management of the National Youths Service Corps (NYSC) has so far displayed professionalism and excellence in the discharge of their duties and conduct at various camps across the country. A civil society group, Nigeria First movement has said.

The group, which made this known in a press statement on Friday in Abuja, said it came to this conclusion after an assessment tour of NYSC facilities across the nation, particularly in the Federal Capital Territory.

The Nigeria First movement said it visited the FCT camp on Thursday and Friday, expressing satisfaction with its officials in ensuring that the scheme does not lose focus on its core mandates.

According to the statement signed by its President, Richard Adie, the group hailed the management over its strict adherence to Covid~19 safety protocols across orientation camps.

From their visit, Adie further revealed that corps members are subjected to coronavirus tests on arrival before they are admitted into the camps while prompt medical assistance are rendered for those who tested positive.

He added that the FCT orientation centre, in particular, has taken other pragmatic steps to de-escalate the pandemic.

The group also applauded the measures put in place to secure young Nigerians who are on solemn duty of serving their fatherland.

Adie, also acknowledged the gallantry of the military and law enforcement agencies for the prompt release of two abducted prospective corps members.

In terms of welfare and other psychological support for corps members, Nigeria First scored NYSC high for the many initiatives that the scheme has introduced for corps members.

While applauding the FCT management for their cooperation, the group said the scheme is even more attractive now despite the challenges confronting the nation and the world at large.

Read full statement below:

We are elated to be here today, in furtherance of our patriotic mandate, as a group that represents the purest interest of our dear nation, to appraise the situation at the FCT NYSC orientation camp in the following areas:
a) The efforts to de-escalate the spread of Covid-19.
b) Measures on the security of the members.
c) Welfare and other psychological support for corps members
Nigeria First has a special interest in the NYSC, a scheme established in 1973, to encourage peaceful coexistence and cultural integration in the country after a devastating 30 months of civil war, that weakened the bond of unity that held the country together as one nation. We are not unaware of the critical role the NYSC scheme plays in bridging the widening gap of disunity in our dear nation. As an outfit that stands out as one of the symbols of unity and cohesion in Nigeria today, at a time when our very fabrics of unity is once again, shaken to its roots, with secessionist calls from some quarters, a Nigerianist organization like the Nigeria First, see it as a patriotic call to ensure that NYSC is better placed to continue to serve its unifying purpose.
The world is yet to recover from the deadly Covid-19 pandemic which since its detection in 2019, has continued to form a barrier on in-person activities around the globe. This has posed a serious challenge for the NYSC scheme, which depends on the gathering and movements of persons, to fulfill its mandate. The resolve and courage in carrying out the core mandates of the scheme in the face of the dreaded Covid-19 pandemic is commendable. However, we do not wish to in the euphoria of the many positive impacts of the scheme, lose track on the need to ensure that the corps members are adequately protected from the deadly virus, this is why we have come here today to assess the efforts of the NYSC scheme to de-escalate the spread of Covid-19 in the camps. From what we have seen in this Orientation center, the strict adherence to internationally-accepted Covid-19 protocols; including the provision of many hand-washing points, aimed at suppressing the existence and spread of the virus in the Centre, subjecting all members to Covid-19 tests on arrival and the prompt medical assistance made available to those who are tested positive, have left us satisfied that the NYSC in general and the FCT Orientation Centre in particular, have taken pragmatic steps to de-escalate the pandemic.

May I also explore this medium to congratulate the NYSC, and salute the gallantry of our military and other law enforcement agencies, for the prompt release of the two NYSC members that were kidnapped while on the solemn duty of serving the fatherland. This has gone a long way to reinvigorating our hope in the ability of the NYSC scheme to go any length in ensuring the security of corps members. Their sleepless nights and pressure, coupled with the professionalism and gallantry of our law enforcement bodies and the military, ensured that no member was lost in that condemnable act of banditry and kidnapping. It is laudable that despite the security threats, the NYSC scheme has relentlessly put many measures in place to ensure the security of corps members. The movement of corps members in company of heavy security, especially in volatile areas, is the greatest demonstration of good faith on the part of the scheme to ensure maximum protection of corps members. Other measures which will not be made public due to the sensitive nature of the issue, will continue to guarantee safety of corps members.

In the area of welfare and other psychological support for corps members, Nigeria First again, scores NYSC high for the many initiatives that the scheme has introduced to provide mental support while ensuring the welfare of corps members.

Nigeria First is satisfied with the work of the NYSC in general and FCT orientation camp in particular, in ensuring that the scheme does not lose focus on its core mandates. The many initiatives of the NYSC that has continued to uplift the scheme and make it better cannot be fully enumerated in this speech, but on the three issues raised above, it gives us inestimable joy to see that the scheme is doing a lot to change the narrative and continue to make the NYSC an attractive scheme that will continue to stand in the way of disunity and balkanization of this country.

Finally, may I on behalf of the Nigeria First movement, express our gratitude to the coordinator of the FCT orientation Centre and the leadership of the NYSC scheme in Nigeria, for the friendly atmosphere that was availed to us during this finding mission. We use this opportunity to advise coros members to be security conscios and complement the efforts of NYSC Management to ensure that they do not put themselves in harms way.

A civil society organisation, The Abuja Grassroots Advocacy Project, has drummed support for the establishment of a Trust Fund for the NYSC.
According to the group, the establishment of the Fund will effectively complement the Federal Government’s efforts in moving 100 million Nigerians out of poverty.
The chief advocate of the CSO, Comrade Yunusa Ahmadu Yusuf, disclosed this on Wednesday while speaking at a symposium organised by NYSC on the imperative of establishing a Trust Fund for the scheme in Abuja.
Yusuf commended the NYSC management for the idea of the Trust Fund while also calling on all and sundry to support its establishment as it will empower the scheme to effectively confront the emerging economic challenges of the 21st century.
He also commended the scheme for providing a platform that would engender greater appreciation of the imperative for the NYSC Trust Fund and generate ideas that would facilitate its actualisation.
According to him, resolutions reached at the symposium have the capacity to change the narratives of not only the NYSC scheme, but the teeming Nigerian youths.
He called on the NYSC management to sustain and expand the scope of advocacy for the establishment of the fund.
It was also agreed that to achieve the desired objectives for the establishment of the Trust Fund, it must have clear objectives to promote transparency and beneficiaries must be identified based on gender, geopolitical representation and other relevant demographies.
“The NYSC Trust Fund the realisation of the NYSC Trust Fund will effectively complement the Federal Government’s efforts in moving 100 million Nigerians out of poverty as those expected to benefit from the fund would be Corps members who have been trainedthrough the NYSC Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development Programme are expected to train and empower no fewer than five persons from their host Community,” he added.
He said that the recommendation adopted during the NYSC symposium was laudable and should be supported by members of the National Assembly when the Bill for the establishment of the Fund would be presented to them for approval.
“We also want to appeal to President Muhammad to make the bill an Executive Bill when presented to the National Assembly. Because if passed into law, many Nigerians will benefit from it greatly,” he stated.

By Philip Agbese


I read the London-based Economist magazine's editorial, the crime scene at the heart of Africa, and I ended having mixed feelings about Nigeria. The title of the editorial was well cast to elicit a wide readership. That was brilliant. It ran historical about Nigeria with flashes of the civil war. In the usual manner, it dwelled on historical disjoint regarding the remote and immediate causes of the war. This is a topic for another day.
The editorial board of the magazine sanctioned such publication without recourse to the sensibilities of its readership. It went on a foray of invectives that could be used in blogs and startup news mediums. This was what the Economist did, and it is somewhat indicative that editorial competence has eluded the organization.

My grouse with the editorial was the gross misrepresentation of facts regarding the prosecution of the war against insurgency in Nigeria and other forms of criminalities. "The Nigerian Army is mighty on paper. But many of its soldiers are ghosts" it stated. How could one possibly explain this statement? Was it a statement of fact or the usual attempt at jabbing the successes recorded in North-East Nigeria and other parts of the country?
What was the source of information? A product of detailed field research or outright insinuations and illogical conclusions? I will go with the latter because the Economist got it wrong in all ramifications. A visit to the theatre of operations in North-East Nigeria would help a great deal in understanding that the publication of the Economist relied on outdated data that dates back to 2009 when the Boko Haram group began its violent campaign in Nigeria.

I also need to add that the Economist must be educated to know that in the year 2016, while Lt Gen T.Y Buratai, now Ambassador of Nigeria to Benin Republic, held sway as the chief of army staff, the Nigerian Army gained ascendency over the Boko Haram group, that led to their dislodgement from Sambisa Forest. So much so, that it was common knowledge that the activities of Boko were restricted to the fringes of the Lake Chad basin region.

What about the super camp strategy introduced in 2019, that involved taking the fight to the enemies in their hideouts after dislodging them from their operational headquarters in Sambisa Forest. Again, the successes recorded were outstanding. But the Economist was not aware of these feats because its editors were probably holed up in their comfort zones in London.

This is 12 years after, and a medium as respectable as the Economist magazine is caught pants down. The conclusion is this: either the editorial was in return for a plate of porridge or a deliberate attempt to boost readership on its platform. Whichever motive was responsible, it remains that the Economist magazine is only mighty in name but meagerly in editorial content.

The death of Abubakar Shekau and Abu Musab al-Barnawi, known factional leaders of Boko Haram and the Islamic State of West Africa Province, ought to have sent a message to the editorial team at the Economist. Did they deliberately ignore or they were not privy to the recent happenings in North-East Nigeria?
Let me digress a little. The real crime scene was at the editorial boardroom of the Economist magazine, where the publication of such misinformation about the Nigerian Army was okayed without due diligence. It, therefore, indicates that the tendency for readers to be misinformed by the Economist is high. Or could it be that the Economist has joined forces with the global network of terrorism promoters by promoting news stories that give terror gangs psychological advantages?

Back to the crux. The Nigerian Army remains a highly professional force, whose impact in Nigeria on addressing the myriads of security challenges has been noteworthy. The fact remains that the Nigerian Army has been extensively involved in Internal Security Operations across the country.
The editors at the Economist must come to terms that the Nigerian Army's role in internal security operations does not only have robust precedence; it has now become a national security imperative. And why is this so?

The Army’s readiness and availability suffices in this regard. Therefore, as The Economist put it, I am not convinced that “ghost” soldiers could attain such a feat.
I also wonder how it eluded the editors at the Economist, the political undertone to the security challenges in Nigeria. I would suggest that they lay hold of the profile of the Chief of Army Staff in Nigeria. After that, I believe they would have a rethink with regards to the term "ghost soldiers."
For the records, Lt. Gen. Farouk Yahaya was the commander of the counter-insurgency operations in North-East Nigeria before he was appointed Chief of Army Staff. And the records are in the public domain for their perusal. I am tempted to believe that the editors at the Economist are intolerant about Nigeria as a country for reasons best known to them. This intolerance they have recently transferred to the operations of the Nigerian Army.

For the records, almost 6000 insurgent commanders and foot soldiers have recently surrendered due to improved counter-insurgency operations in North-East Nigeria. And many more exploits that are in the public domain that the Economist elected to ignore.
My takeaway from the editorial is that the Economist was economical in their analysis. It smacks of mischief and a deliberate attempt to misinform and create a crisis of confidence within the Nigerian Army. But did they succeed? The answer is no. and were there lessons to be learnt?

There are indeed lessons to be learnt in the sense that readers should be circumspect with content from the supposed mighty news mediums such as The Economist. Most of them have lost editorial standards. The staying power is the name and not the content, as evident in the analysis in “the crime scene in the heart of Africa”.
"The crime scene in the heart of Africa" is fiction. The Nigerian Army is not mighty on paper; it is a professional force with verifiable exploits in counter-insurgency and internal security operations. I would have availed more details about the achievements of the Nigerian Army in recent times. However, I will leave that for the army authorities.

This piece is not a structured response but an opinion from a concerned citizen who is conversant with the operations of the Nigerian Army and its numerous contributions to peace and stability. And I say in unequivocal terms that there are no “ghost soldiers” in the Nigerian Army. The Economist must do well to recant their stance.

Agbese is a human rights law researcher at the Middlesex University London.

"Having a good medical facility in the Niger Delta region is one thing that will help reduce the health issues and challenges faced by the people of the region". This was a statement made by the Special Adviser to the Interim Administrator/CEO of the NDDC, Engr. Udengs Eradiri.

Engr. Eradiri while ably representing the NDDC boss, had the privilege of cutting the tape of the newly built 10-bed dialysis centre of the Silhouette Diagnostic Centre in Abuja. Speaking to newsmen after the event, Engr. Eradiri enthused "Quality facilities such as this, is one that we deserve in our region and the country. I am super excited because this facility belongs to one of us, a Niger Deltan who despite the economic challenges in the country, overcame all odds to ensure he broke even and contribute his quota to building a world-class medical industry".

Engr. Eradiri wasn't alone in the opening of the Silhouette Dialysis Centre, the Founder of the Nigerian Young Professionals, Moses Siasia was also in attendance and he enthused that "at a time when medical practitioners are looking for a way out of the country for a supposedly greener pasture, you chose to invest and grow a world-class medical facility; I celebrate with you and promise to use my network to bring to the fore this facility"

It was a well-attended event with plans by the management to expand beyond Bayelsa, Rivers State and the FCT.

Senator Tokunbo Afikuyomi has described the Royal Turbaning of Alhaji Saliu Mustapha as the Turaki of Ilorin by His Royal Highness, Alhaji (Dr) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, as a worthy recognition of Alhaji Mustapha’s contribution to nation-building. Senator Afikuyomi in a statement issued and personally signed, said said Alhaji Mustapha is a long-term associate who has been conscientious in politics, and painstaking in humanitarian services, not just around the people of Ilorin Emirate alone, but in the entire Kwara State and in Nigeria as a whole.

According to the Senator, who once represented both, Lagos Central Senatorial District, and Lagos West Senatorial District in the Nigerian Senate, "Mustapha’s decent politics, maturity and candor have combined to portray him as a rare breed amongst the pack, which is why he is often welcomed in any circle he has pitched tent with."


“He has a great sense of fairness, comportment and is also result oriented. A loyal friend, with a god-fearing disposition, he passes as one of the most respectable public figures from Kwara State,” Afikuyomi added.

Senator Afikuyomi summed that with his turbaning as the Turaki of Ilorin, he is confident that Mustapha Saliu will impact on the people of the peace-loving emirate, in line with the vision of His Royal Highness, and the expectations of citizens.

“May God almighty give him the wisdom, good health and longevity to deliver the much-needed goods for his people, his fans and for humanity at large. Congratulations to a good friend,” the Senator concluded.

By Donald Okpeh

The North East Development Commission (NEDC) has slightly clocked two years of its existence. Absolutely, in the last two years, NEDC has been on a progressive odyssey in the execution of its mandate in Nigeria’s Northeast region. It is a region hitherto, severely ravaged and devastated by multilayered, bloody jihadists campaigns of insurgency for over a decade.

Established by an Act of the National Assembly (NASS), and signed into law by President Muhammadu Buhari in May 2017, the NEDC’s Governing Board was inaugurated in May 2018 by Mr. President. Thereafter, it commenced full-scale operations under the leadership of the Managing Director, Alhaji Mohammed Goni Alkali.

Sequel to the Buhari Presidency, Boko Haram insurgency totally paralyzed or crumbled economic activities and infrastructural facilities in the Northeast region. Many Nigerians never imagined that insurgency would be blighted to the point of mandating the NEDC or any other agency with the arduous task of succor to the displaced, traumatized and distraught populations in the Northeast region, comprising Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba, and Yobe states.

Information on the NEDC website, disclosed its main mandate as; “among other things, is to receive and manage funds from allocation of the Federal Account and international donors for the settlement, rehabilitation and reconstruction of roads, houses and business premises of victims of insurgency as well as tackling menace of poverty, illiteracy level, ecological problems and any other related environmental or developmental challenges in the North-East states”.

The statistics of devastations in the region were quite scary. Multiple media reports corroborated that between 2009 and 2015 insurgents’ atrocities in the region destroyed more than 900 schools and forced at least, another 1,500 to abrupt closures. And by early 2016, close to 1 million school-aged children fled the violence -prone areas of the region and the UN estimated a frightening figure of IDPs in excess of 2.4 million people, housed in various camps across the region, with its connected humanitarian crisis.

Therefore, NEDC’s immediate actions were directed at the reconstruction of the damaged physical infrastructures, reducing the humanitarian crisis faced by IDPs, evolving a solid peace-building, reconciliation, and de-radicalization framework. The NEDC management understood that issues such as illiteracy, poverty and unemployment were the bane of unending insecurity in the Northeast region.

In spite of the enormous responsibilities of the commission, the management has so far, glaringly proved its mettle, with meagre funds in the kitty, to the applause of Nigerians, especially, people of the Northeast region on execution of its official mandate. The Board has in the last two years, met so many popular expectations, remedied many infrastructural deficits across board, recording many success stories in projects execution and humanitarian services. To its credibility today, there have been unprecedented achievements in the reconstruction of housing units, hospitals, roads, bridges, portable water supply, schools, scholarship grants to indigent students, empowerment and skills acquisition programmes, among others.

In Borno state for instance, the NEDC has completed the construction of 1,000 housing units and equipped numerous Technical and Vocational/Skills Centres around the state based on the approvals it obtained from the FGN in 2019 to construct 10,000 houses, as well as establish Technical and Vocational Skills Acquisition Centres for the IDPs across all the six states in the region.

Ngowom Village, Mafa LGA of Borno state now bore the bold the imprimatur of NEDC’s first 1,000 housing units in the region. The completed housing units have since been handed over to the Government of Borno state, led by Professor Babagana Zulum. This is aside other resettlement programmes, infrastructural as well as scholarship programmes granted indigenes of the state, in tertiary institutions by the commission, a direct attack on the sermonized ideology of Boko Haramists.

The NEDC has also constructed and commissioned a world class Burn Centre at the University of Maiduguri Teaching hospital (UMTH) to treat burns from bomb explosions or fire incidents. It has since been put to use to address incidences of burn injuries and other related matters in the state.

Similarly, in Yobe State, the NEDC identified the magnitude of destroyed infrastructures in the educational sector orchestrated by insurgency. The commission discovered that from the primary schools to the tertiary institutions, the scale of destruction as a result of the Boko Haram crisis was mindboggling. School buildings, furniture, and other equipments were destroyed by the insurgents.

But with the Rapid Response Intervention (RRI) programme of the NEDC in Yobe state, the last two years, has experienced massive renovations and constructions of new classrooms, offices, stores and supply of furniture across the 17 local government areas of the state.

Yobe state has also benefited from the commission’s initiative to provide affordable housing units for the people of the Northeast region. So far, 500 housing units have been completed in Yobe state. Out of this number, 250 units are located in Damaturu the state capital; 50 units in Buni Yadi; 50 units in Geidam; 50 units in Potiskum; 50 units in Gashua, and another 50 in Nguru.

The commission has also repaired and converted over 28 boreholes to solar hybrid and subsequent drilling and installation of 34 hybrid solar boreholes across Yobe, in order to meet the water and sanitation needs of the rural folks in the state. This is aside from the state-of-the-art molecular laboratory the commission has established at the Yobe State University Teaching Hospital (YSUTH), for easy testing of Lassa fever, COVID-19, Yellow fever as well as other diseases and outbreaks in the state.

The agricultural sector in Yobe state too has enjoyed the commission’s intervention, as many dry season farmers in the state have benefited from the 1,500 participants in the Agricultural Support Scheme of NEDC in the state and the region. The state has also enjoyed the ICT and other trainings sponsored across all the states in the region by the commission’s management.

Also, in Bauchi State, the NEDC commenced the infrastructural rebuilding process after it had in September 2021, flagged off the construction of 500 housing units in the state. The distribution of food and non-food items to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the state also took place the same day as the commission targeted tackling the issue of imminent food insecurity in the region.

Furthermore, the NEDC has commenced the construction of two major roads in Bauchi, which previously resisted the attention of successive administrations in the state. The roads are Alkaleri – Futuk road in Alkaleri LGA and Alkaleri -Kirfi- to Gombe Abba road in Kirfi LGA of Bauchi State. Construction work is also ongoing at the Soro cattle market in Ganjuwa LGA as well as at Fistula Hospital in Ningi LGA. The NEDC is determined to complete these projects in the next fiscal year.

In Adamawa, the NEDC has also taken over the reconstruction of three critical bridges in Kudzum, Dilechim and Wurro Ngayandi, all destroyed by the Boko Haram insurgents in Michika and Madagali LGAs of the Northeast region since 2014. These bridges serve as links between Adamawa and Borno state and its destruction grounded socio-economic and commercial activities between the two states.

NEDC established another Burn Centre at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC ) Yola as well as infectious laboratory for testing Covid 19 at the state Specialist Hospital Yola, among many other life- saving or uplifting projects in Adamawa state have been completed by the commission, fully equipped and are ready to be put to public use. Notably, the NEDC boss, Mohammed Alkali led other top management members of the commission, the Governing Board, the minister of works, NASS members and other stakeholders to Adamawa state on a two-day official working visit, where the completed projects were commissioned and handed over to the Borno State Government while new ones were equally flagged off for execution on same day.

At the time of the visit too, the commission also flagged off the construction of 500 housing units for IDPs in the state; distributed various food and non-food items to victims of insurgency, handed over the well-equipped Burn Centre built at FMC Yola as well as the infectious diseases laboratory to the Adamawa State Government.

The NEDC has initiated similar projects in Gombe and Taraba states respectively. The construction of MEGA Schools, the reconstruction and rehabilitation of education sector’s infrastructures to address the high deficit in classroom blocks in both primary and secondary schools throughout the Northeast region is a commendable initiative by the Commission. These and many more have been achieved within just two years of the NEDC under its pioneer management.

Therefore, it is not surprising that the North East Youths and Elders Peoples Forum, (NEYEF)recently expressed satisfaction with the leadership of the NEDC under Alkali, commending the commission for making giant strides in its mandate of rebuilding and redeveloping the Northeast zone. NEDC has accomplished more than can be captured in a single piece.

But with these stated exploits, the NEDC has made within a short span of two years, the process of rebuilding the Northeast region is on course under the Buhari Presidency. And cynics are shamed that indeed, it is possible, the devastated region can regain its lost status, despite the afflictions of years of insurgency under focused leaders.#


Okpeh is a public affairs ansyst and wrote this piece from Abuja.

The deplorable state of infrastructure at the Oyo State High Court, Ring Road, Ibadan.

By Ibrahim Lawal Esq,

The Oyo State High Court of Justice, Ring Road, Ibadan, is the seat of the judiciary, the third arm of government. Apart from the fact that it hosts more than fifteen Court Rooms, the office of the Chief Judge of the State is there. The Judicial Service Commission, a body saddled with the responsibility of taking care of the appointment and welfare of judicial officers, has its office within the premises. It also houses the Probate Registry as well as the Court Registry.

This complex, arising from its centrality to the filing of judicial processes and the nature of the services it renders to the members of the public, attracts a constant stream of vehicular and human traffic. It is patently unjust for the Government to leave the whole complex in its present squalid circumstances. It has become urgent for the managers of administrative affairs in the State to address this deplorable situation.

A new visitor to the Court premises may be compelled to believe that all is well, especially when he/she does not have any reason to move beyond the first Car Park. Any venture into the so called extension, the second car park, reveals putrescence. Nobody with a modicum of self-respect will attempt a revisit after the first experience. Cars, drivers, litigants and lawyers bear the unmistakable imprimatur of pervasive decadence, occasioned by perennial neglect. Construction site workers have better tales to tell. Visitors to the premises are most reluctant to repeat the unpleasant duty, if they are obliged to do so. Lawyers and litigants have sorry tales of embarrassing moments during their visits. The roads are simply impassable and messy. The Court Rooms need urgent attention. They are too hostile to the business of adjudication which requires deep intellection. They are repulsive to decency. It is unjust to have the courts in the erstwhile capital of the defunct Western Region, the most advanced in all ramifications, reduce to a huge joke.

May we appeal to the Executive arm of government to come to the aid of the judiciary as urgently as the current partisan consideration will permit. The current hardship can be mitigated by the Governor. He is a man of exquisite taste. The intervention of the State at his private residence around Kolapo Isola Estate is a pointer to the quality of job he can bring to existence. We will not be asking for too much if we demand that the Governor intervene to save the Judiciary from further mockery.



Ibrahim Lawal is the Head of Chamber, Olujinmi & Akeredolu.

My Name is Amos Usman I am a Corps Member serving in Yauri Local Government Area of Kebbi State with the State code Kb/20B/0218 I am serving in Government Girls Science College Yauri. I saved up my allowee to invest in green season rice farming.

Before my deployment to serve in Kebbi State, I run only a subsistent farm back in my state of origin, coming to Kebbi and being posted to Yauri Local Government, made me abolish my desire to further re-apply for relocation which was not granted to me while on camp.

Coupled with the consistent advices offered me by my Local Government Inspector Mr Femi Dada and my Zonal Inspector Mr Timothy Dikko on need to continue with SAED post camp training and also not to neglect the little idea I had in my yard farming, I decided to dabble into rice farming.

I had to follow the Principal and VP to their farms to learn about the plantation of rice. They eventually thought me alot on rice farming and helped me to secure a hectare of land at #10000. This alone served as push to put all my savings from my allowance to get every necessary thing done.
Rice seed...... #37,000
Tractor's-work.#14,000
Planters......... #25,000
Weeding......... #22,000
Chemicals...... #12,800
Fertilizer........ #39,000
Grand total 159000, while IAM expecting at least 40 bags of rice.

I am most thankful to the National Youth Service Corps for giving me this opportunity to be able to build on my passion .

Corps members serving in Òkè-ìlà community in Ifedayo local government area have put smiles on the faces of the people of the community by refurbishing two long abandoned boreholes in the community.

The project which was carried out on Thursday was commissioned by the Orangun of Òkè-Ila, HRM, Oba Adedokun Omoniyi Abolarin.

Ọba Abolarin commended the Corps members for their selfless contribution to the community stating that their presence has always been a great source of motivation and inspiration for the youths and children in the community.

"you have indeed shown to me and my people that the NYSC Scheme is not a sham and that your training was indeed worthwhile.

" aside your imparting knowledge in our children in the classrooms, you have surprised us further by working towards making portable water available for our people. You have done well", he said.

Ọba Abolarin added that the people had given up hope of ever getting portable water from the boreholes because it had been abandoned for a very long time. He appreciated the scheme for believing in the unity of the nation and working towards achieving it.

"most of the Corps members who have carried out one project or the other are mostly from different states, tribes and climes but the scheme succeeds in bringing them together and they as a team work in harmonious symphony to achieve the mandates of the NYSC".

Earlier, the State Coordinator, Mrs Winifred Shokpeka, who was represented by the Local Government Inspector, Mr Oniye Damilare appreciated the Orangun of Oke-Ila and the good people of the community for the warm reception accorded the corps members when they first resumed, this, according to him, had made them feel at home in the community.

He stated that based on the training recieved by the members, it was expedient for them to reciprocate the hospitality of the people by leaving a positive landmark such as they had done.

The programme also had in attendance the LGIs of Ejigbo and Isokan local government, Mr Akin Owoseni and Mr Rotimi Onatade respectively.

By David Onmeje

The Sun Publishing Limited, publishers of The Sun newspaper is one of Nigeria’s leading generational news tabloid. Within a short time of its operations, the medium carved a niche for itself in credibility and media excellence in the industry.

Therefore, The Sun Publishing Limited has upped the ante by adding another garland on the shelve of the numerous public service accolades, received by the Director -General, National Youth Service Corps (DG-NYSC), Brigadier General Shuaibu Ibrahim. The 18th Sun awards 2020 honour of Brig. Gen. Ibrahim was a loud reaffirmation of his splendid public service performance. It is Nigeria’s appreciation of a dedicated public servant.

In recent times, the DG-NYSC has been feted by highly reputable corporate bodies and organizations for his marvelous public service records. Brig. Gen. Ibrahim’s nomination by the Board of Editors of the Sun Publishing Ltd and subsequent conferment of the Sun Public Service Award for 2020 is a resounding and distinctive crest of excellence trailing his shadows in public service.

Some Nigerians may be wondering why the DG-NYSC has become a doyen and celebrity in the files of famed organizations in Nigeria. But is it undeniable that the over four decades NYSC scheme has been repositioned, reinvigorated and revolutionized under the leadership of Brig. Gen. Ibrahim despite the turbulent times in the country.He has defined new templates and set new targets for himself, which are religiously implemented.

Brig. Gen. Ibrahim, a crack soldier, military historian and an administrative czar is perpetually scared of failure. So, he strives to excel all the times. He once proclaimed that, “As I sleep and wake up, I think of death and what I will be remembered for and when God gave me this opportunity, I always think of what legacy I will leave behind.”

Propelled by this passion, his execution of the NSYC’s vision for the scheme has placed it on the fast-track of accelerated development; bolstered and renewed enthusiasm in young Nigerians in serving their country and sparked NYSC’s support of national productivity through its agricultural initiatives for corps members. Most significantly, the NYSC is now aggressively pursuing the agenda of morphing into an independent scheme, rather than the total dependence on funding from the FGN.

Thus, it is an accurate verdict to assert that Brig. Gen. Ibrahim has raised internal platforms in the scheme, which are gradually turning the NYSC into an investor, money spinner and active contributor to the focal national policy of the President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration on food security agenda. The NYSC boss also dealt a lethal punch on the nagging menace of dubious participation of graduates with forged certificates in the scheme and fake NYSC members, which were at the verge of completely eroding the credibility of the scheme.

At different times, analysts and public affairs commentators have applauded Brig. Gen. Ibrahim’s perfect initiatives on synergy with multiple agencies and financial institutions. He has his eyes fixated on skills acquisition and financial empowerment of corps members in order to adequately arm them for the post-service challenges of unemployment in the labour market.

The 18th DG- NYSC is famed for his religious implementation of the scheme’s five-point policy. Today, Nigeria can boast of corps members whose potentials are maximally consummated or utilized during the one-year duration of the scheme. The NYSC has repositioned serving corps members to derive multiple self- benefits.

The Director- General has enlivened and bolstered conversations and collaboration with critical stakeholders; improved welfare and security of corps members as well as staff. The NYSC boss has also birthed and reengineered a technology-driven scheme which is effectively creating, energizing and reviving the NYSC Ventures and SAED in line with NYSC Act.

At the precarious times of the COVID-19 outbreak, the NYSC boss ensured all orientation camps were secured and there is a laudable testimony that the scheme has not recorded any COVID-19 fatality to this moment. Rather, corps members displayed enviable patriotism in enlisting into their nation’s fight against the pandemic . They produced hand sanitizers’, face masks, embarked on sensitization campaigns on observance of COVID-19 protocols and in some instances, served as emergency health workers where necessary.

And today, the NYSC has invested in massive rice plantations across the country; built or revived Rice and flour Mills, water factories, and allied investments. These are indisputable landmarks which have elevated Brig. Gen. Ibrahim to the status of an exceptional leader deserving of the Sun Public Service award, as echoed by the Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief, Mr. Onuoha Ukeh.

Of course, Brig. Gen. Ibrahim has birthed his biggest project which is in the offing. He is committedly pursuing the initiative of NYSC Trust Fund. It is conceptualized to empower the corps members after post -service years and also, stabilize and sustain the scheme by attracting external revenues to fund its operations.

The DG-NYSC reasoned that “The skills acquisition project has taken many men and women out of the labour market because they become responsive to the challenges of a digital economy. That is why we also want to solicit public support and that of the federal government to set up NYSC Trust Fund. Supported by organizations, it will provide start-up funds for corps members for business and equip the scheme more too. Keeping the corps members busy with the empowerment from the Trust Fund will take many Nigerian youths off the streets and labour market.”

Therefore, the special recognition and award to Brig. Gen. Shuaibu Ibrahim by the Sun newspapers has again trumpeted his finest innate endowments as a soldier and administrator, who has the knack for hard work, commitment to duty and a stickler for excellence wherever he is privileged to render public service. The Sun award is certainly not the last in the public recognition of the assets embodied by Brig. Gen. Ibrahim. When men of ideas, who are endowed with an innovative spirit mount the saddle, the impactful signs become are clear as manifest in the DG-NYSC. May God grant him the strength to drive his initiative of the NYSC Trust Fund to fruition. #

Onmeje wrote this piece from the United Kingdom.

The Southern Nigeria Frontier SNF, is deeply worried, by the recent statement credited to Presidential spokesman, Mr Femi Adesina, where he, in a malevolent manner, asserted that President Muhammadu Buhari has become so popular among Nigerians, that he now pulls more crowd than notable founding fathers of Nigeria such as Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Mallam Aminu Kano.

We consider it very pitiable and shameful, for anyone, particularly students of history, to compare the popularity of President Muhammadu Buhari, with that of our founding fathers, who did not only enjoy massive support and popularity among their people, but lived their lives, for a prosperous and indivisible Nigeria, unlike the now characteristics and very unpopular image of President Muhammadu Buhari.

We are more worried, that such a shameful statement, came from an otherwise promising front line journalist, and of course, a senior member of the media community, whose capacity for right thinking, has become an issue of serious contestation as at the moment.

We cannot but also state clearly, that Mr Adesina's statement is not accidental, as it is just one in the series of his hatchet jobs, of attacking every progressive and historic characters, that seek to expose the inefficiency of the Buhari Regime, which he has dedicated his life, towards the defence, of its glaring failure.

And to show the true intention of the person doing the comparison, he left out the former Premier of the Northern region, Sir Ahmadu Bello from his comparison as if he never existed in the political space, alongside Zik, Awo and Aminu Kano. Should we not ask Mr Femi Adesina, if he unconsciously left out the late Premier of the Northern region, Sir Ahmadu Bello, in his 'popularity' rating, or he consciously did, out of the fear for his patrons or perhaps, the script he was out to disseminate.

Sincerely speaking, how can any adult or good student of history, begin to draw comparison or even rate President Muhammadu Buhari, higher in term of popularity, with nationalists, who did not only pay their dues, for the actualization of our nationhood, but also spent their lifetimes, defending the cause for the enthronement of democracy, many of those virtues, that the Buhari Regime has continually, aggressively eroded over the past few years.

How can a President, whose body language and actions of operatives of his regime, undermine everything fought for by Dr. Azikwe, Chief Awolowo and Mallam Aminu Kano, be rated above these nationalists, by Mr Femi Adesina?

While urging Nigerians, especially the younger generation, whom Mr Adesina's mischievous manipulation of history, tend to confuse, to disregard this distortion of history, we wish to ask, that President Buhari must listen to the yearning of Nigerians, and urgently address the unprecedented economic downturn and insecurities in the land, without further delay.



Signed:

Olufemi Lawson

Spokesman, SNF

The Director General of the National Youth Service Corps Brigadier General Shuaibu Ibrahim has again received another accolade to his already long list of honours as he was presented the Sun Awards 2020 for Public Service by the Publishers of ‘The Sun Newspapers’ at a grand ceremony in Lagos on Saturday.
In a short video aired before the Award presentation, Management of the SUN Newspapers said the DG NYSC was considered for the award because of the unprecedented changes he has brought to the National Youth Service Corps as the 18th Chief Executive of the organisation.
His collaboration with Agencies, Organisation and Financial institutions that seek to empower members of the corps were also presented as attributes that make Brig Gen Shuaibu and exceptional leader deserving of the award.
Minister of Youth and Sports Mr. Sunday Dare who represented the Secretary to the Government of the Federation; Boss Mustapha praised the Management of Sun Newspapers for sustaining the award ceremony for eighteen years and the very rigorous selection process that ensured only deserving individuals are selected for the prestigious award .
Twenty individuals were given awards for Public Service, Philanthropy, Business and Technology at the well-attended ceremony. Also in attendance were the governors of Edo, Kano and Ondo while Kogi, Yobe and Borno Governors were represented by their Deputies.
Brigadier General Shuaibu was accompanied by his wife and some Directors to accept the Award at the 18th Sun Awards 2020. Another winner in the same category was the Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency retired Brigadier General Buba Marwa.

By Kolawole Anthony

The name Ambassador Tukur Yusufu Buratai, Lieutenant General (retd) sure rings a bell in the annals of the country. Take it or leave it, it would continue to resonate for a long time, especially at the mention of the Boko Haram insurgency in the country.

Ambassador TY Buratai is a former Chief of Army Staff. But one that redefined purpose and engagement. He is such a great thinker. I won't be wrong if I regard him to one of the great military strategists in the modern-day era because his exploits were legendary, from Operation Lafiya Dole to Operation Crocodile Smile, through Operation Sahel Sanity and others too numerous to mention.

I recently encountered Ambassador TY Buratai, and he remains every inch himself, filled with wisdom and willing to contribute to the discourse on national security. Indeed, there was something fascinating about TY Buratai. He is a man of conviction. I recall when he was appointed Chief of Army Staff, he stated that peace must return to North-East Nigeria. That conviction begat the famous Operation Lafiya Dole that saw the decimation of the Boko Haram group and its dislodgment from Sambisa Forest.

The exploits of operation Lafiya Dole in the war against insurgency in North-East Nigeria cannot be overemphasized. It was also on record that TY Buratai, as Chief of Army Staff, sometimes led operations and slept in the trenches with troops. I recall that on several occasions, his convoys were ambushed. But he wasn't deterred, and he carried on like the colossus that he is.

The TY Buratai era in the Nigerian Army remains remarkable. It would always serve as a reference point in leadership and patriotism. The establishment of the Nigerian Army University was also hailed as one of the highlights of the Buratai era. It was indeed a masterstroke that elicited commendation from wide and far. The Buratai era also saw to the introduction of numerous reforms in the operational strategies of the Nigerian Army that placed it in prime position to carry out its mandate in the preservation of the territorial integrity of the country.

TY Buratai was indeed loyal to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I recall some time in 2020, a well-respected former Chief of Defence Staff, Lt. Gen. Ipoola Alani Akinrinade, at the commissioning ceremony of the state-of-the-art Operations Room in Headquarters 2 Division, Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment Ibadan, Oyo State., commended TY Buratai.

He was quoted as saying "that the events of recent weeks which went beyond the END SARS protest have portrayed the Chief of Army Staff as a "rare breed officer and an exemplary leader" who did not betray the trust and confidence of the Commander in Chief, noting that Buratai has on many occasions made it clear that the Nigerian Army is a professional army and that the era of military intervention in political governance was gone for good."


I also recall an occasion where he was heaped with generous praises and referred to as Sun Tzu of Africa by his patriots and mentees within the military for religiously upholding soldiers' welfare and comfort like a commandment.

It was stated that his adoption of this philosophy was responsible for the Army's winning streaks in its counter-insurgency operations in North-East Nigeria and other internal security operations across the country. I agree with this because TY Buratai was the soldiers' soldier who would join troops in a feast during festive seasons. He would visit wounded soldiers receiving treatment and many other instances where he displayed leadership at its finest.

I stand to be corrected; the likes of TY Buratai are in short supply in Nigeria. He is a combination of passion, diligence and hard work. He is also a great thinker and one whose operational strategies were always top-notch. It remains a statement that he left the Nigerian Army better than he met it. This much was acknowledged with the numerous awards and recognitions that came his way.

For example, he was conferred with the Brazilian Military Order of Merit Award, the highest military honour in the country and awarded to military officers who had distinguished themselves in various military endeavours. This is just one out of the numerous awards and recognitions that came his way during his remarkable stint as Chief of Army Staff.

And today, this legend and selfless Nigerian is still serving his country as Ambassador of Nigeria to Benin republic. It is also on record that he has been galvanizing the much-needed diplomatic support for the country in the fight against insurgency and other acts of criminality.

Most Nigerians might not know that TY Buratai, as Ambassador, is actively involved in the preservation of the country's territorial integrity covertly. He may have dropped the uniform, but his contributions to national security are invaluable. This is a statement of fact, which those in the security space can attest to. Only recently, he paid a visit to the Chief of Defence Staff in what could be dubbed a strategy session and the results have been overwhelming. Indeed the master strategist has returned.

Kolawole PhD is a security expert and wrote this piece from Abuja.

*DIRECTOR-GENERAL NYSC CALLS FOR COLLECTIVE ACTION AGAINST INEQUALITY AND GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE.*

Director-General National Youth Service Corps, Brigadier-General Shuaibu Ibrahim (Assoc. Prof. DSS Ph.D MTRCN) has called for collective action from all stakeholders in the fight against the ravaging effects of inequality and gender-based violence in the society.

The Director-General made the call during the flag-off of the first phase of NYSC Grassroot Gender Sensitisation and Advocacy Campaign in Rural Communities, held at Government Day Secondary School, Sunkaani, Ardo-Kola Local Government Area of Taraba State.

In an address read by the State Coordinator NYSC Taraba State Mr Anthony Nzoka, the NYSC DG lamented the discrimination against the female gender in some communities and warned against the physical harm and psychological effects of such discrimination to women and girls.

General Shuaibu therefore called on community leaders, religious institutions, local government administrators and other stakeholders to ensure that no man, woman, girl or boy is denied the opportunity to realise their God given potentials.

The NYSC Top Boss reiterated the Scheme's continued support and advocacy on gender matters and thanked all stakeholders and partners for their support.

Responding on behalf of the Local Government Area, the Hon. Chairman, Ardo-Kola Local Government, who was represented by the Director, General Services and Administration, Mr. Alexander Bingan expressed his sincere appreciation to the NYSC for the sensitisation program. He assured all present of the support of the Council in the fight against gender based violence and discrimination and called for the extension of the sensitisation to other communities within the LGA.

Present also at the flag-off ceremony were the Director PRS Ardo-Kola LGA Mr Bappa Waturu, the Chairman, Muslim Council, Ardo-Kola LGA Usman Abdulkarim, Gender Monitoring Officer NYSC NDHQ Mrs Patience Lenkat, Management Staff of NYSC Taraba Secretariat, Students and Community Members.

By Gbenga Osoba

Since the establishment of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) by the Gowon military administration on 22 May 1973, to help quicken the process of reconstructing, reconciling and rebuilding the Nigerian state after a devastating 30 months of Civil War that tore the country apart, NYSC has proven to be an indispensable tool in engendering unity, reintegration, lasting peace and building a robust education sector in the country.

With the inception of the scheme, the widening gap of mutual suspicion, ethnic distrust and religious tension that was created by the civil war, began to close as the youths started to appreciate the similarities in our diverse cultures and beliefs. The opportunity the scheme afforded the youths to be abreast with the way of life of people outside their state and region, created an enabling atmosphere for Nigeria to quickly heal from the nearly three years of war. An expert on African history puts it even more better when she wrote, “the seamless recovery of Nigeria from a grueling 30 months of bloodbath was magical. A magic that was a masterstroke of the NYSC scheme”.

In the education sector, the role NYSC scheme plays in instituting quality education across board, cannever be over emphasized. It is on record that since the inception of NYSC, our education sector has reinvigorated the waning confidence of Nigerians in the sector, with a steadily increasing integrity. The scheme introduced a touch of dynamism, innovation, creativity and new discoveries in the sector, through the activities of Corps members sent to these schools for their PPAs. Students in majority of the remote villages were as well inspired by the corps members to study hard so they can equally graduate and serve their father land in the future. The new enthusiasm this created in the young students, paved way for a robust competition amongst them, encouraging a vivid growth in the quality of education at the local level.

The adventurous nature of their teaching method, created a fertile ground for raw talents to be hatched. New subjects and courses which were introduced by corps members in their various schools for PPA, provided viral alternatives for every student to fit in. It enabled every student to quickly discover their areas of strength and nurture same into a societal asset. The mental challenge the presence of the young corps members pose for the young students, equally enabled an efficient and effective learning process for the students. It raised the bar for industry and added impetus to the standard of education in our schools. Knowledge was effectively and seamlessly passed. This encouraged many people who were hitherto disinterested in formal education to find it captivating, thereby reducing the number of out of school children in the localities.

The leverage of higher academic training the corps members possess (University Graduates) over the school teachers (mostly NCE graduates) made them the rallying point for the students to get advanced knowledge and exposure on many contemporary subjects and topics. This also benefited the students in both public and private schools, in the areas of self-development and confidence building. The inability of the majority of corps members to understand and speak the native languages of students in the rural areas and had to rely solely on English language to teach and communicate with the students, provided a virile platform for the students to improve their communication skills in English language. The corps members therefore contribute immeasurably to the development and improvement of English language in our schools.

The contributions of NYSC scheme to the development of our education system and their role as the symbol of unity and cultural integration in Nigeria, has earned them, the confidence and respect of the majority of Nigerians.

In a new public opinion poll conducted by NOIPolls, it was revealed that 8 in 10 adult Nigerians do not support the scrapping of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

It was further revealed that out of the 80 percent who do not support the scrapping of the scheme, majority of the population (30 percent) affirms that the scheme is a tool for cultural integration in the country. While 27 percent believe that the scheme is an avenue for exposure and self-development, 17 percent believe it helps the youths in various ways.

It was also revealed via the poll result that most Nigerians (83 percent) who participated in the poll admitted that the scheme has met its objectives of fostering National Unity in the country.

“Interestingly, 83 percent stated that graduates do benefit from the scheme and when probed further, monthly allowance (30 percent), intercultural relationship (17 percent), and self-development (12 percent) were the three top benefits mentioned amongst others”, part of the report on the poll stated.

Osoba wrote this article from Minna.

*DG NYSC PAYS COURTESY CALL TO THE GOC 82 DIVISION ENUGU

The Nigerian Army has expressed readiness to continue to priotise the security and welfare of Corps members.
The General Officer Commanding 82 Division,Nigerian Army, Enugu, Major General TA Lagbaja gave this assurance today, when the NYSC Director-General, Brigadier General Shuaibu Ibrahim, paid him a courtesy visit at the Division's Headquarters in Enugu.

He said the Army had mapped out strategies towards ensuring that residents of the State, including Corps Members on election duties,in Anambra state enjoyed peace and security before, during and after the exercise.

The GOC, who noted the contributions of the NYSC to the socio-economic development of the country, also praised its role in training and mentoring youths as responsible members of the society.

He commended Corps Members for their invaluable services to the various units of the Division, including the Command Secondary Schools in its Areas of Responsibility.

Earlier, the Director-General, Brigadier General Shuaibu Ibrahim, had expressed gratitude to the GOC for the Division's support for NYSC, especially with regards to the welfare and security of Corps Members.

Ibrahim noted with delight that the GOC personally visited the Orientation Camp in Enugu to monitor activities and consolidate on the security arrangements in the facility.

He expressed commitment to further strengthen the cordial relationship between the Scheme and the Nigerian Army.

The Director-General also paid similar visit to the Commander 82 Division Garrison, Brigadier General CA Ataki.

The contribution of the National Youth Service Corps to the socio-economic development of Nigeria has received attention in recent times. In some quarters, it was stated that the contributions of the National Youth Service Corps in the health sector in the country could not be overemphasized.

This much was corroborated by the impact of NYSC doctors across the country during the indefinite strike action by Resident Doctors. It was on record that NYSC doctors indeed rendered invaluable services in most public hospitals across the country.

According to Professor Femi Johnson, a public health expert at the University of Ibadan, he stated that the NYSC plays a critical support role in the health sector in Nigeria. This much he highlighted has been the norm for decades. He said that "people make the mistake of thinking NYSC doctors are not eminently qualified. That is an error of judgement. These are qualified doctors who are undertaking their mandatory national service year."

“The strike action by resident doctors in the country recently indeed exposed the inadequacies in the health sector, as well as the importance of the NYSC as a scheme in the health sector in Nigeria.”

This much was corroborated by a top-ranking member of the Nigerian Medical Association, who pleaded anonymity. He stated that most public hospitals in Nigeria depend heavily on NYSC doctors and nurses, especially in rural areas.

"In most public health centres across the country, the mainstay are corps members, either doctors or nurses. This is not strange because it is what the NYSC entails. It is service for these newly inducted medical doctors.”

This fact was corroborated by scores of health experts interviewed. They believed that the NYSC as an institution could be classified as an interventionist agency for its critical role in the country's life.

According to Nnonso Nwangwu, a medical doctor in one of the Federal Medical Centres in the country, the NYSC doctors are an integral part of the health sector in Nigeria. “As a fact, we look forward to the posting of NYSC doctors to our facility to augment our workforce year in year out. This is cognizant of the fact that lots of doctors are leaving Nigeria in droves, and the lifesaver has been NYSC doctors, who are always willing and able to provide critical intervention.”

He further added that the government should act as a matter of urgency to extend the service year for doctors and nurses to fill in the void created by the massive brain drain experienced in the health sector in Nigeria.

"We need the government to address the brain drain issue by extending the service year for medical personnel undergoing the NYSC scheme. I dare say that some states in Nigeria depend wholly on NYSC doctors and nurses to man primary healthcare centres, and in some instances general hospitals.”

He also expressed fear that some health institutions might collapse without the intervention of the NYSC doctors. “We fear for the collapse of the health sector in some states, and the government must come to terms with this stark reality and do all possible to address some of the issues at the NYSC for its contributions in the health sector cannot be overemphasized.”

According to a member of the National Assembly from one of the states in the South West, he emphasized how youth corps members have been bridging an invaluable gap not just in the health sector, as well as the educational and agricultural sectors.

“As a lawmaker, I have consistently advocated for the sustenance of the reforms in the NYSC scheme. Both on the floor of the hallowed chambers and in my other engagements, I have posited that the NYSC remains a vital tool for sustainable growth and development. For example, I know of three local government areas in my state that survive on the inputs of corp members in the educational, health and agricultural sectors.”

“I recall some of my colleagues share the same opinion as mine because they also are aware of the invaluable contributions of the NYSC in national development. But guess for political considerations, they have elected to shy from speaking the truth. And this is sad and a disservice to the country.”

A member of a civil society organization who pleaded anonymity stated that during the outbreak of the novel coronavirus in the country, NYSC doctors were at the forefront of curtailing the further spread of the virus.

“We must be reminded that NYSC doctors were among the frontline health workers that worked round the clock in governments efforts towards addressing the challenge as it were. I wonder why no mention was ever made of this invaluable contribution. Again, this reminds us of the fact that some stakeholders have refused to look beyond their prejudices to admit that the NYSC scheme remains a lifesaver in Nigeria.”

“ I recall that NYSC doctors and nurses were found in most isolation centres working round the clock. But were they recognize? This is unfortunate, and this trend must be discontinued. We can’t continue to live in ignorance by joining the bandwagon calling for the scrapping of the NYSC scheme.”

It would be recalled that the NYSC management has in recent times advocated for more allocation of resources to equip corps members during their service year through the establishment of the NYSC Trust Fund to assist corp members in ways too numerous to mention.

The leadership of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) of Nigeria and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) were singled out for praises on Monday when hundreds of Nigerians trooped the streets of Abuja to hold a 'thank you rally' for President Muhammadu Buhari.

Led by the Civil Society Groups on Security Reforms in Nigeria, the Nigerians expressed gratitude to the president for his purposeful leadership in poverty alleviation, infrastructural development, agricultural reforms, corruption fight, among others.

Speaking on behalf of the Nigerians, the group's convener, Comr. Dauda Owolabi Abdullateef, hailed Corps Marshal, Dr Boboye Oyeyemi and his NSCDC counterpart, Ahmed Abubakar Audi, for embibing and replicateng the president's quality leadership virtues.

Since his appointment in 2014, Abdullateef noted that the FRSC boss has carried out his responsibility with equanimity and sense of patriotism.

He said Dr Boboye has introduced numerous reforms that has finally returned the agency to the path of sanity and honour.

Among others, Abdullateef said there is now transparency, accountability and dedication in the FRSC, visible in the creation of anti-corruption app and National Traffic Radio (NTR).

In the NSCDC, meanwhile, the group said Dr Audi has filled the void provided by the overstretched security formations across the country, ensuring adequate security for the lives and properties of Nigerians.

Abdullateef said the NSCDC's partnership with relevant security agencies has repelled bandits' attacks across the country, thanks to the resilience and firm leadership of Dr Audi.

According to him, many schools in the North-West and North-East relied heavily on the security provided by the NSCDC to keep their schools open and students safe.

While passing a vote of confidence on President Buhari together with the duo, the Nigerians said the FRSC and NSCDC can do more with improved funding.

If this is done, Abdullahef further noted that there will be more quality reforms in the road traffic sector and enhanced cooperation between the NSCDC and other agencies, particularly now that the country is embroiled in security challenges.

The group, however, warned "misguided individuals" and "troublemakers" to quit their antics as it is distracting both leaders.

Read full statement below:

Today presents yet another opportunity to appreciate the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR for the purposeful leadership it has provided Nigerians since it’s inception in 2015.

Nigerians cannot thank Mr President enough for running a people-driven administration with special interest in poverty alleviation, infrastructural development, Agricultural reforms and corruption fight.

As a group with primary focus on security reforms in Nigeria, it will be an incurable oversight if we fail to also recognize the efforts of the current Leadership of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) of Nigeria and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in replicating the quality leadership of Mr President in their respective outfits.

It is on record that since the mantle of leadership of the FRSC fell on Dr Boboye Oyeyemi on July 24 2014, he has carried out his onerous responsibility with equanimity and sense of patriotism. He has introduced numerous reforms that has finally returned the agency to the path of sanity and honour. As the first Corpse Marshall to be appointed from the inside, he distinguished himself and harmonized the past mistakes of his predecessors, his experience and patriotism into building an FRSC that has become the pride of the nation. We invite fellow Nigerians to take a cursory look into Dr. Oyeyemi’s impressive use of modern technology to fight the corruption that has in the past, brought the organization to public ridicule and disrepute. Oyeyemi ensures that the commands are run efficiently on budgeted allocations, which are paid as regularly as the financial releases are made by the federal government to avoid a situation where the commanding officers and patrol teams could be tempted to compromise their responsibilities by resorting to illegal sources of funding their operations. Through this mechanism, commanding officers are sure of finances to routinely carry out repairs of their operational vehicles and other administrative costs without resort to self-help that could compromise them.

Oyeyemi has developed a workable framework that ensures that only stated fines are paid by violators and the corps under him, has continued to carry out series of sensitization programs to ensure members of the public do not fall prey to the corruption antics of overzealous members of the corps. And in further demonstrating its commitment to corruption-free society which aligns with the philosophy of the present administration, Oyeyemi-led Management went into partnership with an NGO known as Akin-Fadeyi Foundation to launch an anti-corruption App by which victims of corruption from members of the Corps can immediately activate and send report of the transactions to the FRSC Headquarters for immediate remedial action.

In furtherance of its policy on transparency, the present Management of Corps Marshal Oyeyemi last year established the National Traffic Radio (NTR) to provide ample opportunity for members of the public to not only get information on traffic updates and road conditions across the country, but report any negative encounter with members of the Corps including demand for bribes directly to the studios.

The traffic radio which has been in operation is providing direct access to members of the public through various communication tools for unhindered fight against impunity and corruption among the FRSC personnel and other incidents.

The FRSC under Corps Marshal Boboye Oyeyemi also earned international accolades for its efforts in reducing the accident rate in Nigeria to slightly above 2000, record low, in 2018.

In the NSCDC, the current Commandant General of the corps, Ahmed Abubakar Audi has stepped into the gap of insecurity provided by the overstretched security formations across the country, to ensure adequate security for the lives and properties of Nigerians. The successes witnessed by the NSCDC in partnering with other relevant security agencies to relentlessly repel bandits attacks across the country has been attributed to the resilience and firm leadership of Abubakar Audi.

In the wake of the incessant kidnappings and bandit attacks in the North, many schools in the North-West and North-East relied heavily on the security provided by the NSCDC to keep their schools open and students safe.

In view of the performance of the two security outfits highlighted above and the need for more quality services to the nation, our group has resolved to use this opportunity to solicit for more funding to the duo of FRSC and NSCDC. If they can achieve all these with the scarcely adequate funds at their disposal, this group is confident that with more funding, there will be more quality reforms in the road traffic sector, while the NDCDC will be better placed to continue to partner with the relevant security outfits to provide adequate security for all Nigerians, particularly, now that the country is embroiled in insecurity challenges.

We also wish to use this opportunity to pass a vote of confidence on the leadership of FRSC and NSCDC for their good performances and assure them that Nigerians will not forget their records of excellence. We implore them to remain resolute in their patriotism and drive to discharge their duties to the best of their abilities.

Consequently, we wish to distance ourselves and the majority of Nigerians from the antics of some misguided individuals who has constituted themselves into willing tools to be used by enemies of this great nation to distract the leadership of FRSC and NSCDC from the good work they are doing. May we unequivocally warn these trouble-makers and meddlesome interlopers to steer clear of these agencies, else they incur the wrath of well-meaning Nigerians who are enjoying their good work and patriotism.

The Coalition of Human Rights Monitoring Group and Good Governance has kicked against the call for the removal of the Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, describing it as a mere distraction.

The CSO, which made this known at a press conference today in Abuja, said those behind the frivolous campaign are mischief makers and should not be taken seriously.

In his address, the Executive Director, Gabriel Agibi, noted that the shadowy group, the Coalition of Civil Society Network, are only constituting a nuisance in the polity.

According to him, Dr Audi has proven to be a man on a mission since his appointment by President Muhammadu Buhari, demonstrating an unflinching loyalty to the country, evident in his various innovations.

The CSO said as critical stakeholders, the CG's only sin could be his strong stance against corruption and insistence on due process which has not gone down well with some vested interests.

Agibi further revealed that these individuals are either ignorant or unaware of the impressive reforms introduced by Dr Audi that has overwhelmingly transformed the service for better performance.

The group, however, urged the unsuspecting members of the general public to be wary of overnight groups parading as human rights and good governance advocates, as they are against the interest of Nigeria, and by extension carrying out the bidding of some vested interest.

On its part, the Coalition of Human Rights Monitoring Group and Good Governance passed a vote of confidence on the CG in his numerous efforts at repositioning the NSCDC for greater productivity in service to the country.

Read Full Statememt Below:

The leadership of the Coalition of Human Rights Monitoring Group and Good Governance welcomes you all to this press conference put together to question the rationale for the call for the removal of the Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps.

It is alarming that some shadowy group of persons parading under the nomenclature of The Coalition of Civil Society Network would elect to constitute a nuisance in the polity by calling for the sack of the Commandant General of the NSCDC most bizarrely.

It is quite unfortunate that the promoters of this group delved into an area they lacked knowledge, so much so that their modus operandi smacks of ignorance and a high level of mischief, hence the balderdash it stated in its press release.

The Coalition for Human Rights Monitoring Group and Good Governance sees this act as an affront to the collective sensibilities of Nigerians. We are also worried that such a concoction could be released into the press without recourse to the implication such a misnomer could have on the psyche of Nigerians.

We wish to place on record that the Commandant General of the NSCDC has been a man on a mission since his appointment by President Muhammadu Buhari. On record, he has demonstrated an unflinching loyalty to the country, and this has been evident in the various innovations experienced in the NSCDC since he assumed leadership.

As critical stakeholders, we are tempted to believe that the sin of the Commandant General of the NSCDC in the fact that he has cleaned the Augean stable and this stance has not gone down well with some vested interest whose activities almost brought the NSCDC to its knees.

These agents of destabilization are still licking their wounds, and the best way for them to get their pound of flesh is to go to town with a diatribe such as alleging job racketeering and the display of arms on the website of the NSCDC.

As expected, the promoters of this group failed either by omission or commission to also highlight that the Commandant General of the NSCDC has indeed turned around the agency's fortunes within a record period.

They also failed to inform the general public of the sterling leadership attributes of the Commandant General of the NSCDC that has positioned the agency for more extraordinary exploits and indeed primarily responsible for the success story of the NSCDC in recent times.

We wish to state in unequivocal terms that the Commandant General of the NSCDC is not only doing wonders; he has indeed matched words with action to the chagrin of perpetrators of crime and criminalities across the country.

The Coalition of Human Rights Monitoring Group and Good Governance wishes to use this medium to warn all detractors to desist from constituting themselves as clogs in the wheels of progress in the country. They must come to terms with the fact that Nigerians are now aware of their gimmick, no matter how hard they try to cover up.

We wish to place on record that those calling for the sack of the Commandant General of the NSCDC are not aware of the reforms that have been introduced that has better positioned the service for better performance.

We, therefore, encourage unsuspecting members of the general public to be wary of overnight individuals and associations parading as human rights and good governance advocates, as these groups and associations are against the interest of Nigeria, and by extension carrying out the bidding of some vested interest in the country.

The Coalition of Human Rights Monitoring Group and Good Governance gives the Commandant General of the NSCDC a vote of confidence in his numerous efforts at repositioning the NSCDC for greater productivity in service to the country.

We consequently advise members of the general public to extend support to the leadership of the NSCDC in this critical time of our existence and our quest for a safe and secured country.

We thank you all for your time and attention, and with your continued support, Nigeria will defeat its adversaries.

A youth Corper, Mr Godfrey Godwin Enang, of the Information and Communication Technology Department of the Nigerian Army Resource Centre (NARC) Abuja, has designed an application for the NARC.

The software is an in-house application composed of various applications that work seamlessly with one another linking the Central Registry, Inventory, Human Resource and Biometric attendance register, amongst others.

Mr Godfrey Enang who is also the Corpers’ Liaison Officer at the NARC, holds First Class Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer Science and Software Engineering from Univeristy of Bedfordshire, United Kingdom obtained in 2017. He also has a Master of Science Degree in Advanced Computer Science from University of Hertfordshire, United Kingdom obtained in 2019 with Distinction.

The National Youth Service Corp (NYSC) has been in the news of late regarding the living standards of NYSC orientation camps, as well as the safety of corps members during the mandatory service year that sees graduates of Nigerian universities posted to parts of Nigeria for national integration purposes.
This medium researched select NYSC orientation camps across the country to get the pulse of Corp members regarding their experiences in orientation camps and their places of primary assignment.
According to Ms Anabel Okechukuw (not real names), the NYSC has provided her with the long-awaited opportunity to experience life outside her state of origin. For Anabel, she has all her education in Abia state. Leaving Abia to Gombe state was initially scary, given what she has read about the north in most newspapers.
"The experience is different. My parents did all that they could to get a redeployment for me to no avail. My father asked me to be brave. The journey from Abia to Gombe was smooth. When I arrived at Gombe, I thought that was it, until I had to commute another 32.5Km from Gombe metropolis to Mallam Sidi, where you had the NYSC Orientation camp.”
“My experience at the camp was awesome. I made friends and consumed lots of watermelon. The camp facilities were in excellent shape. My parents didn't believe all I told them about Gombe state that I had to do a WhatsApp video call to allay their fears."
Ms Anabel's story wasn't different from that of other Corp members interviewed at the Mallam Sidi orientation camp and in some parts of Gombe state undertaking their mandatory service year. The general consensus is that of social interaction, bridge building and friendship across tribes and religions.
The case of Anike from Oyo state presents a story of how the NYSC has been fostering religious and ethnic tolerance amongst Nigerians. Anike is happily married to Usman from Taraba state. They met at the Rivers state NYSC orientation camp in Nowa Gbam Tai. For the couples, love-struck regardless of ethnic or religious affiliations. And today, they are happily married with a child.
"Our story would have been incomplete without our participation in the NYSC scheme. We believe that there are many others whose paths have crossed as a result of the NYSC scheme. And today, they are still relishing the NYSC experience."
When asked about the usefulness of the NYSC scheme in the lives of youths in the country, they stated that its service could not be overemphasized.
"During the NYSC programmes, my husband was a beneficiary of the Skills and Entrepreneurship Development programmes. Today is an employer of labour, and we have been living our lives in peace. Even though I wasn't keen on any of the programmes, I later realized that I missed an opportunity, but thank God my husband took it"
In Lagos state, the NYSC orientation camp in Iyana Ipaja was a beehive of activities. Corp members were actively engaged in camp activities. A visit around the camp facilities revealed a facility that is in top shape to accommodate Corp members. Those interviewed spoke in glowing terms about their experiences in the camp.
Richard from Akwa Ibom state stated that after his NYSC programme, he intends to settle down in Lagos to pursue a career. “I believe Lagos is the place for me, given the avalanche of opportunities. I have also indicated interest to partake in the various skill acquisition programmes introduced by the NYSC.
In an interaction with the Lagos State coordinator of the NYSC, Mr Cyril Akhanemhe, he stated that the Lagos state government had indicated interest to equip the NYSC orientation camp further to accommodate more corp members.
“As you can see, the facilities in the camp are in good shape, and that is not to say that we would not strive to improve on them. As you may know, the traffic to Lagos state is high. As such, we have been proactive in engaging the Lagos state government concerning facilities upgrade. The response has been positive so far.
In Katsina State, our correspondent who visited the NYSC orientation camp interacted with scores of Corp members about their experiences so far. The consensus was that of a peaceful and exciting exercise. When asked about the security situation in the state, most of them stated that there was adequate security in camps and the corpers lodges around the state.
According to one of the heads of the security agencies in the state, who pleaded anonymity, he stated that the security of Corp members takes premium. Inactive collaboration with the NYSC secretariat, the state government ensures that corp members are not posted to areas of risk to their lives.
The story was not different at the NYSC orientation camp in Kano state. Our correspondent gathered that the camp is fitted with state-of-the-art facilities and Corp members spoke glowingly about the facilities in the camp.
According to Chinwe, a graduate of the University of Nigeria, when she was posted to Kano state, she almost passed out because of fear of the unknown and insecurity. “I felt sick when I saw my posting to Kano state. But I can tell you that the experience has been awesome. The facilities in camps are good, the food is very okay, and the social interactions have been awesome. It feels like home, but for the morning drills."
Elisha Ambrose also corroborated Chinwe. He stated that the Kano NYSC orientation camp experience is pleasant. He would encourage prospective Corp members to lobby to be posted to Kano State. "The camp in Kano state is a place to be. The hostels are neat, and the food is also delicious."
The same story resonates across Nasarawa, Plateau, Bauchi, Adamawa, Enugu, Anambra and Abuja, where corp members praised the state of the camps, but for a few instances where some corp members could not hide their dislike for the food.
In all, the verdict of this medium is that the state of the NYSC camps across the country is befitting. Kudos must be extended to the management of the NYSC for ensuring that the orientation camp exercise is eventful, as well as satisfying for all corp members regardless of what state they were posted to for their primary assignment.

By Gbenga Osoba

I call myself a Lagosian. I love Lagos with all of me. Everything about me revolves around Lagos. The opportunities are endless. And I would dare say Lagos is addictive. I believe I am not alone on this boat of emotional upheaval about Lagos.

This also brings me to the addiction of university graduates to the National Youth Service Scheme (NYSC). The feeling is euphoric when graduates adorn the NYSC khaki. Parents are elated and filled with so much joy. And the corp members themselves feel a sense of accomplishment.
Take it or leave it, the NYSC has been a great blessing to the country because it has brought about a sense of unity and cultural orientation amongst the various ethnicity in Nigeria. We have had instances of people who have never been outside of their states for the duration of their lives. The first trip out was a result of the NYSC programme, and the memories linger a lifetime.

For me, I would forever cherish my NYSC experience in Anambra state. There I made friends across religions and ethnicity. And some of my experiences in Awka remains indelible in my life. After my service year, I have had reasons to visit Akwa again and again for business and leisure. That is the beauty of the NYSC.

Do I talk about those that experienced business breakthrough as a result of their participation in the NYSC? Do I mention those that found their missing ribs during the NYSC programme? Do I say those who discovered their guardian angels during their service year or those whose fortunes changed forever because they were posted to particular states in the country due to the NYSC programme?

The NYSC is indeed an enduring legacy that ought to be upheld by successive governments for its benefits are innumerable. This much can be corroborated by those who initially thought outside their domains; there would be no life. But the good thing is that it is on record that these categories of people find it amazing that there could be life outside their immediate environment.

I know of scores of people who, after leaving for the NYSC programme, elect to stay behind and start-up life. The case of a childhood friend Rotimi comes in handy. Rotimi and I had been childhood friends. During our NYSC programme, he was posted to Adamawa state. I recall the depressed looks that he wore upon realizing he was posted to Adamawa state. Where is Adamawa state, he asked me? What part of the country is that he also asked? It was like the world had ended, and I am sure he cursed the NYSC scheme.

Today, Rotimi can be referred to as a son of the soil, as he stayed behind, got a Job in Yola and is happily married to a beautiful Numan lady, with whom they have three lovely kids. If anyone told Rotimi that Yola was where his destiny was, he would curse. If anyone ever told Rotimi that a Numan princess would be the mother of his kids, he would also curse. But such is life and the power of the NYSC.

Aside from the national integration purpose of the NYSC, it has served to bridge the critical gap amongst the various ethnic and religious affiliations in Nigeria. The NYSC is the bridge that links the South to the West, the North to the East and many more. And with these enduring attributes, I wonder what those advocating for the scrapping of the scheme have at the back of their minds.


Maybe mischief or ignorance, but whatever is the case, it is misplaced and must be discarded for lacking in merit and commonsense. Unless they want to feign ignorance to the nation-building impact, the NYSC has brought about in the country. Maybe they are not aware of that, but for the NYSC programme, lots of destinies would have been lost, and lots of people would probably still be wandering in search of direction in life.

They must also realize that participation in the NYSC scheme has also brought about religious and ethnic tolerance. It has erased some of the prejudices that were expressed towards certain tribes in the country. And if this is the case, isn’t the NYSC scheme worth celebrating? In this era of ethnic and religious tension across the country, the most potent tool to address the issues at hand is enhancing the NYSC programme.

The positives outweigh the negatives, and it would be foolhardy for us to jettison such an enduring legacy that has stood the test of time. There are no two ways about how enduring the NYSC scheme has been in the country's annals. And as such, we must do all within our reach to preserve the legacies of the NYSC.

I am glad that I was a part of the NYSC scheme and, likewise, millions of others. And the relevant stakeholders owe Nigeria and Nigerians a national duty to ensure the sustainability of this enduring legacy. The NYSC experience is enriching, memorable, and worth the while for millions of Nigerians. This piece is in celebration of an enduring legacy.


Osoba is a human resource manager writing from Bauchi.

By Best Agbese

Excellence can simply be defined as the quality of being outstanding or extremely good. It is not just about doing the right thing; it is about doing it exceptionally well.

The truth is, the more people there are in any society who put uncommon efforts into common everyday tasks, the more progress it makes. Therefore, I can boldly tell you that the CORE of Excellence is Unity, which flows from discussions of issues, and deliberate actions that reinforce confidence of people in genuine conservation around peaceful coexistence.

_“If Nigeria is to make rapid progress on all fronts internally, and if she’s to make her mark on the continent of Africa, and, indeed, in the comity of nations, her youths must be fully mobilized and be prepared to offer willingly and without asking for rewards in return, their best in the service of their nation at all times,”_ Gen. Yakubu Gowon, former Head of
State, said during the inauguration of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) on June 4, 1973.

Above was the statement made by a great visionary leader that saw the best catalyst of a Nation's growth as the involvement of Her Youth in her daily affairs. This Truth have they uphold for decades, and they kept upholding it.

I can proudly say that, "one of the major factors that greatly geared me towards properly integrating into the Nigerian labour market and establishing a successful career is the NYSC scheme". It helped me better appreciate the different ethnic groups and cultures in Nigeria. It is therefore ludicrous that some conscienceless individuals are out to overrun the scheme .

The scheme which was established by the Yakubu Gowon administration in 1973 has since succeeded in achieving the several mandates it has pledged to achieve. If the scheme is properly gone over with a fine-tooth comb, one would realize that the NYSC scheme remains one of the greatest catalysts of promoting peace, national unity and cultural integration in the country. Thanks to the scheme, many Nigerian youths have learnt to appreciate cultural diversity and make friends and connections with individuals across the country. It has also helped eliminate tribalism and inter-cultural hatred.

It is quite obvious that the underhand activities by the individuals who want the scheme dead are aimed at either propagating political propaganda or an attempt to create enmity in the country. It is sad to also note that these individuals were also beneficiaries of the scheme, but have all quickly forgotten the numerous benefits they gained from the scheme.

There have been many defamatory claims and remarks against the NYSC scheme such as inadequate security for corps members; inadequate provision of welfare to corps members and poor states of orientation camps across the states in the country amongst other risible and false claims. These very individuals have forgotten the reason for the establishment of the scheme. They have also forgotten that the NYSC scheme was the reason why Nigeria was able to quickly heal from the wounds of the civil war and peace was rapidly restored in the country. The country is presently faced with threats of disintegration; in lieu of this, the NYSC remains one of the foremost factors in fighting against the horned demon of disintegration. Thus, it is obvious that anyone who stands against the scheme is not in support of having a ‘One Nigeria.’

It is important to note that, unlike the many false claims against the scheme, it has gone on carrying its mandates and the orientation of corps members in a secure and excellent environment in spite of the many challenges faced by the scheme. If you are opportune to visit an orientation camp in Nigeria, you would discover that the camps are in an impeccable state. The officials of the NYSC have done their best to ensure that proper accommodation in orientation camps are provided to corps members, good food and water and other basic amenities are provided in orientation camps. Medical screenings are also done on prospective corps members to ensure that they are healthy before they are admitted into the orientation camps.

No society, organization or country can hope to maximize its potential without forging a culture of excellence. The greatest disincentive in the pursuit of excellence, however, is the demonstration and tolerance of mediocrity by leadership. There
must be no conflicting signals. Those who have chosen to lead us have exemplified excellence in demonstrated integrity and competence, but a lot of detractors, anti-democracy manipulators, and crooks in politics have been trying to discredit the ambiguous effort this great administration has for our darling nation, through consistent futile attacks on pulling down The National Youth Service Corps.

Just recently, the NYSC made it mandatory that COVID-19 tests are carried out on prospective corps members before their admittance into the orientation camps. You would be surprised that in contrast to the libels against the NYSC scheme, the services and amenities provided by the scheme to corps members are top-notch. These camps are kept clean and secure thanks to the efforts of the sagacious officials.

It is also important to note that under the present administration, renovations have been carried out on several orientation camps across the country. Many dilapidated camps have also been restored and proper basic amenities which were once lacking have been brought back to the camps and made more conducive for living.

This goes a long way to show that the Nigerian government and the NYSC officials have the corps members at heart and they take their health and safety as a priority. If you visit the NYSC orientation camps, you would find medical workers who are dedicated to ensuring that all corps members are healthy and properly treated in the event of an emergency. All these factors have been put in place by the NYSC to provide a conducive and healthy environment for corps members so that throughout the duration of the scheme, they are kept safe and healthy. After all, safety and health are paramount in the life of every individual.

At this point, scrapping the NYSC would be utterly inane. It would be no better than reopening past wounds that haven’t completely healed. The present administration is currently doing its best in maintaining peace and unity in the country. Eliminating a major factor in promoting peace and unity in the country would only make the present situation in the country worse. It would breed hostility amongst Nigerian youths and destroy what our past leaders had worked so hard to achieve.

I can boldly say that I benefitted a lot from the scheme. During my year of service, I met a lot of people who positively influenced me, and made me see life from different perspectives; thanks to the diversity in their ethnicity. I also made a lot of friends and connections which has helped me in my journey through life. Several of the clients I work for, and with, were introduced to me by some of my friends who I met during my year of service. Presently, the NYSC continues to maintain its culture of excellence in the orientation camps equipping corps members with the necessary skills needed to build successful careers and contribute to the development of the nation.

President Muhammadu Buhari's led administration has over the years, through a great relentless effort, shown and proven that; it is not possible to circumvent excellence in character and productive output, and still be able to get ahead.
His leadership’s response towards the support given to the NYSC scheme has been commensurate with his dertermination to build and sustain excellence all through Nation.

What the country needs now isn’t scrapping of the NYSC, rather, the scheme should be preserved and protected. Certain areas of the scheme should be reformed. Better incentives can be provided to corps members. Security and safety of corps members should also be enhanced. I believe that the NYSC scheme should be fostered for any administration to take the country to greater heights.


Agbese is a researcher at the University of Dundee and wrote from Scotland.

The former house of assembly candidate contested and lost the 2019 House of Assembly Election in Edo State. took to his social media handle to drop a piece of advice for his followers about failure, as he resumes the prestigious Paris School of Business.

Read Below;

When You Fail, Stand Up and Keep Moving. In 2019, I contested for a seat at the Edo State House of Assembly and I lost.

That didn't deter me from continuing to speak out for my people. Losing the election doesn't mean I am a failure. I continued with my business, ventured into profitable things, and expanded my brand.

Don't ever allow failure on a thing to make you give up on another thing.

Failure is not falling but staying down.

When you fail, stand up and keep moving.

Today, I am now enrolled in the Paris School of Business, a world prestigious business school renowned for producing scholars. Just know that failure isn't fatal, but failure to change might be.

Following the assassination of Dr Chike Akunyili, the widower of late NAFDAC DG, Dora, the Igbos in Nigeria Movement (INM) has declared the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its militant arm, Eastern Security Network as curse to Ndigbo.

According to the group, Nnamdi Kanu's actions has proven that he is a man on a mission to destroy Igbo Land.

The group made this known today in a statement signed by its Director, Emmanuel Ebuka.

The proscirbed separatist group is alleged to have masterminded the murder of the late medical practitioner and other violent incidences in the region.

And according to the INM, Akunyili's death has left "a sour taste in our mouths regarding the activities of IPB/ESN in the South-East", noting that the brazen act is a complete denigration of the revered Igbo culture.

The group said all well-meaning sons and daughters of Igbo extraction must rise in defence of their land from Nnamdi Kanu and his bloodthirsty group.

While calling on Kanu and his cohorts to desist forthwith from their nefarious activities, the INM urged all security agencies to go all out for the members of IPOB/ESN.

If nothing is done, the group said a semblance of the Boko Haram insurrection in North-East could surface in the region.

The Igbos in Nigeria Movement, however, called for an immediate end to the violence, urging all well-meaning Igbo sons and daughters to disassociate themselves from their activities.

Read full statement below:

The gruesome murder of DrIIhike Akumyili and other innocent Igbo sons and daughters by IPOB/ESN in South-East Nigeria

We welcome you all to this critical press conference put together in condemnation of the nefarious activities of the Indigenous People of Biafra and its militia wing, the Eastern Security Network in South-East Nigeria, in recent times.

Ladies and gentlemen, we must agree that all is indeed not well in South-East Nigeria, with the escalating rate of kidnappings, murders and assassinations, which by and large is being perpetuated by a group of criminal elements parading themselves as agitators for the emancipation of Igbo land.

The Igbos in Nigeria Movement is alarmed that such unwholesome activities are being perpetuated without recourse to the socio-economic implications such actions would have in South-East Nigeria.

The recent assassination of eminent Physician Dr Chike Akunyili leaves a sour taste in our mouths regarding the activities of IPB/ESN in South-East Nigeria. It is indeed a brazen act of complete denigration of the revered Igbo culture.

The activities of IPOB/ESN are indeed sacrilegious, and the Igbos in Nigeria Movement condemns it in its entirety. These acts are demeaning, and as such, all well-meaning sons and daughters of Igbo extraction must rise in defence of Igbo land from Nnamdi Kanu and his group of blood-sucking demons.

It is also said that a man that calls himself an Igbo man would elect to bring misery to his people in his blind pursuit of self-aggrandizement, which he aims to achieve on the alter the blood of innocent Igbo sons and daughters.
It is no longer news that IPOB/ESN is carrying out most of the killings and arsons experienced in Igbo land. And the question is, for how long would these rascals and demons continue with their unholy trade?

The Igbos in Nigeria Movement uses this medium to send a warning to Nnamdi Kanu and his buffoons to desist forthwith from their nefarious activities that have brought untold sorrows, tears and blood in South-East Nigeria.
Nnamdi Kanu and his cohorts remain anti-Igbo. Their actions also portray an attempt to destabilize the South East region in return for a plate of porridge, which is shameful.

The Igbos in Nigeria Movement urges the various security agencies to go all out for the members of IPOB/ESN to end the reign of terror in South-East Nigeria. We also urge the federal government to ensure Nnamdi Kanu is made to account for his atrocities in South-East Nigeria. The families of innocent sons and daughters in Igbo land must get justice for the tears, sorrow and blood inflicted by the IPOB/ESN.

We also wish to state that it is on record theat Nnamdi Kanu and his IPOB/ESN group is in bed with some vested interest that is bent on seeing the destruction of Igbo land, hence the senseless killings and attack on crucial government infrastructures.

Only the devils incarnate would derive joy in spiling innocent blood, and that is what Nnamdi Kanu represents. From all indications, they have sold their souls to the devil.

The Igbos in Nigeria Movement consequently states that Nnamdi Kanu is a curse upon the people of South-East Nigeria. His actions have proven that he is a man on a mission to destroy Igbo Land. But we shall resist him and his shenanigans.

The killings in South-East Nigeria must stop forthwith. The security agencies must go after IPOB/ESN members with utmost urgency; else, we risk a semblance of the Boko Haram insurrection in North-East Nigeria.
The Igbos in Nigeria Movement is optimistic that very soon, the nefarious activities of IPOB/ESN shall be nipped in the bud and the South East region shall experience sustainable peace and development.

We thank you all for your time and attention. We reiterate that Nnamdi Kanu and his IPOB/ESN renegades are not in the interest of Igbo land. As such, all well-meaning Igbo sons and daughters should disassociate themselves from their activities.

May God continues to bless Igbo Land as our commitment to the socio-economic development of the Igbo land remains unflinching.

NORTH CENTRAL ZONE OF NYCN DECLARES THREE DAYS MOURNING OVER LOSS OF BENUE STATE CHAPTER CHAIRMAN



The North Central zone of the National Youth Council of Nigeria said it has gotten approval from the President of the NYCN Amb. Sukubo Sara-igbe Sukubo has declared three days of mourning, following the loss of the Benue State Chapter of the Council, Comrade George Odoo. Comrade Odoo had been declared missing for days after he embarked on a short trip until the news broke that he had been involved in an accident and passed on to the great beyond.
In a press release signed by the Vice President of the Zone, Comrade Mukhtar Akoshile, the NYCN described Comrade George as “a passionate youth with indomitable zeal couched in humility and wisdom beyond his years”. Comrade Akoshile also described the loss of Comrade Odoo as an “unquantifiable loss to the whole of Nigeria and Benue state in particular as he was shaping up to be a genuine impact maker in national affairs, from his stint in the Benue state youth council”.
Comrade Akoshile directed that “all flags be flown at half-mast in all council offices within the north-central zone, while the minute silence should be observed at all functions of the chapters within the zone for the next one month”.

Comrade Akoshile condoled with the family and the good people of Benue state led by the Executive Governor Samuel Ortom and assured them that “Comrade Odoo’s legacy of bringing stability to youth council activities in Benue state will be sustained and consolidated upon to ensure that Benue youth are not left out of the many capacity building and welfare packages available to them through council advocacy and programmes”. The zonal vice president also announced that formal condolence activities and programmes to preserve his memory are planned, and details will be announced after an emergency meeting of zonal executives that has been summoned for today, and due consultations with the Benue state chapter as well as other stakeholders.

Yari would Never be A Worst APC National Chairman Like Adam Oshiomole, A rejoinder.


In just one year after a disgraceful and shameful exit as the national chairman of the ruling APC, the political career of Adams Oshiomhole has suffered a huge setback to the extend that today Oshiomole has became a political mad dog who is attacking the most responsible national figure, a resourceful leader of APC, a Cheiftain of APC and hopefully the next national Chairman of APC, His Excellency Abdul’aziz Yari Abubakar.

On this aspect of rejoinders, we decided to digest every single lie and claim by Adam Oshiomole on the most committed and incoming APC National Chairman HE Abdulaziz Yari with the tangible facts and clear terms that every right thinking Nigerian will belief on.



First of all, as we all know today in Nigerian politics, Adam Oshiomole has already became an expired political product that no party is willing to buy such product into there domain and the overal populance today believes that Oshiomole’s political career have been reduced to just a mere rubble rouser and by no other person than the former Edo state governor who after leaving the office became the worst ever APC National Chairman in the history of Nigerian politics.

Again, not so long after the court of appeal affirmed his sack as the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Oshiomole has been dislodged in Edo state where he governed from 2008 to 2016. The people of Edo became more clear to the term that they disown him from there state for been an usual failure and the worst political creation from their state. But this, is another story for another day or may be in the subsequent version of the rejoinder.

For record emphasis and to make histroy very clear for the yet unborn generation. Its very important that other Nigerians especially members of the APC across the nation to know that, Oshiomole’s claims against the most humble politician Abdulaziz Yari are untrue, false and just a mere verbal masturbation from a mis-guided, illogical and both mouted politician of the century, who fails to different between the excellent leadership of Abdulaziz Yari in all ramifications and his worst ever leadership of APC as a party.

But before then, Oshiomole claimed that Yari was not able to manage the political affairs of a single state and that he would be the worst APC national chairman if elected into the position by the party. Fine !, On this, it’s very important to take us back to the political history of the man Abdulaziz Yari to know whether if he is truly a failure or a winner and a success politician.

Since from the beginning of Yari’s political sojourn in 1987, Yari was never for once been a failure, but rather a succeesful winner, a progressive planner, a strategic politician, a master of the game and serial winner of all the political battle that came across his way.

Yari remains on the winning site since from the political permutation of DPN when Abdul’aziz Yari was just a youth leader of the party that mobilized for a party chairman to win the seat of party chairman during the IBB era. He was a winner during UNCP era, a winner during the APP time, a winner during ANPP politicking, a perfect winner and the building block in creation of APC merger and he currently remains a winner at the current APC political generation.

The political assignment given to Yari in 1999 when he served as the Secretary of the then All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP) between 1999 and 2003 delivered successfully. He delivered when he was elected Chairman of ANPP Zamfara State in 2003 and later rose to the position of ANPP National Financial Secretary and served in this position till 2007. He delivered when he was elected as Member representing Anka/Talata Mafara Federal Constituency from 2007 to 2011. He was a winner at all times and and delivered perfectly what was given to do.

On April 26, 2011, the people of zamfara state asked Yari to come back home from the National Assembly for a number one seat assignmnet in the state and was elected Governor of Zamfara State on the platform of the All Nigeria Peoples Party(ANPP). Yari was a winner and delivered the mandate and the assignment given to him by his people.

Again in the 2015 gubernatorial elections, the people of zamfara saw a better zamfara state under Abdulaziz Yari and they re-elected him as Governor under the platform of the All Progressive Congress (APC). He was again a winner and delivered his assignment at this junction.

On May 18, 2015, Yari’s colleagues in the Nigeria Governors’ Forum unanimously elected him as their Chairman, succeeding Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi after believing in Yari’s able leadership and charisma to lead them as the Chairman NGF. This alone shows how Abdulaziz Yari can be able to managed over 36 states including Adam Oshiomole’s state affairs tackless of one state.

In addition, when Zamfara State Governor Mahmud Shinkafi defected to the PDP in January 2009, taking the ANPP’s state executive committee with him, the whole Nigeria is watching zamfara politics then, Yari take the remaining pieces of the ANPP, re-arranged it, build it and delivered the seat of the Governor to the party by depeating the seating governor who left the party A political battle that up to today many politicians in Nigeria respected and saluted Yari for. Here again, Yari was a winner and delivered the assignment given to him and shows to the world his political sagacity to make things that are impossible happens politically possible. Then to ask Oshiomole where is Yari became a failure politically ?

On the side of Adam Oshiomole political sojourn, history have it that even the governorship election that made him the governor of Edo state was not win battle by Oshiomole’s popularity, but was given to the Oshiomole by the court and not from the people’s votes. An indication that Oshiomole served a political carrier as a failure and worst governor.

Secondly, when Adam Oshiomole talk about Yari’s unable to manage the political affairs of a single state, or become a failure since before he became the national chairman of APC. It’s baffles any one to call Oshiomole as either stupid and mentally retarded politicial or some one who know nothing about the political struggle of Yari’, yari political process and yari political dynasty since day one.

Coming to the 2015 historic politicking on merger to form the APC when Abdulaziz Yari headed and hosted the merger proceeding between AD, ACN, ANPP and others. A time when every body was in fair and confused over the challenges within the different parties involved in the merger. International politicians, political experts and political parties are saying it is impossible to happen, but Yari made a history of making it possible to form the APC that today Nigerians is witnessing and every one is willing to be in it including Adam Oshiomole.

After the formation of the APC, Yari was able to delivered Northwest zone for President Buhari and APC, he was able to delivere Zamfara state to APC completely. He delivered 3 Senators, 7 House of Reps and 24 State Assembly members to APC. Where is Adam Oshiomole hidden in 2015 when Yari accomplished these to APC ?

Then, let forget about 2015 since Oshiomole has not done any thing to APC and was no where to be found then. In 2019, despite all the challenges faced by Abdulaziz Yari which was initiated, engineered and sponsored from the Oshiomole’s national office to ensure Oshiomole’s prepapred candidate that paid the highest transaction succeed, if not for Yari’s doggedness and commitment.

Oshiomole openly declared that, it is either his prepared candidate in zamfara or no election. Unfortunately for Oshiomole, Yari was there for the masses and the people of zamfara until Oshiomole’s candidate was push to shame.

Yari stand still for the people’s choice and after Oshiomhole saw a clear defeat on his higher bidder and annointed candidate from the side of Yari. He quickly dissolved the primary election to escape embrassement. Unlikely, on the second primary election time, Oshiomole failed to sent another delegation for the primaries until its about only 24 hours left to the closure of primaries by the INEC just to maneuver his way, but at the end fails again. What is more surprising is that, at that time when the second team was sent to conduct the primaries. The chairman of the Primaries locked himself in a room to delay the time when thousand of APC members are waiting to hold the election before the time. An indication that, it was already setup from Adam Oshiomole directives. To salvage the party from Oshiomole’s evil plan against zamfara APC, Yari has to quickly perform the primaries under the NWC to protect the party. Then who is a failure here between Yari and Oshiomole ?.

At that time, Yari can decamp to any party and win his election hands down in zamfara state, because the people of zamfara are with the Yari and not the party. But he prepared to stand and stay in A!PC a party he formed with his own hand and nutred to progress. Its abnormal for Yari to abandoned the house he built for millions of party members in Nigeria. So, he continued with the struggles in APC after winning the elections 100 percent from Tribunal to the Supreme Court just to ensure justice for APC before the Supreme Court delivered the success of the APC to the opposition party PDP.

Imagine Yari a man who fought such kind of a political battle to win a governorship seat for the party, 3 senators, 7 House of Reps and 24 state Assembly members, but Oshiomole as the party chairman cannot find a way to settle a simple crisis within the party that already won the elections. This alone says alot for Oshiomole to be the worst APC national Chairman.

To say the least, upon all this, today Oshiomole has the gut to even calls Yari a failure. But its very open that one will now belief that the best person to call a worst failure should be Adam Oshiomole whose under his leadership as APC Chairman, the party suffrpered the following ;

1- APC lost over 3 governors to the opposition PDP especially Governor Aminu Tambuwal of sokoto, because Adams Oshiomole failed to managed them in the party.

2- In 2019 under Oshiomole APC lost over 5 states including Edo state, the state of Adam Oshiomole due to lack of proper management of the party by Oshiomole.

3- Zamfara state that was completely APC state under Yari and has won all the elections, lost at the court due to improper administrative nature of Oshiomole.

4- Oshiomole as chairman of APC that used the party as his personal bank account where he lured incomes from the candidates of his choice to secure tickets.

5- Oshiomole that can’t delivere his own state to the party he was chairing or on the presidential election should definetly considered the worst APC chairman of APC.

Finally, Oshiomole’s serial failure to the party, was the main reason for sacking him out as the APC national chairman and on this who is a real failure between Yari and Oshiomole ?

Concerned Citizens of Zamfara.

At Ibadan, Akerele other scholars insist on economic diversification

The Nigerian at 61 lecture program held at the University of Ibadan on the 1st of October 2021 saw intellectual fire works between scholars and policy makers on how to move Nigeria to the next level of productivity and citizens engagement.

Starting with Prof Remi Aiyede, the HOD political Science, who identified weak political participation by young people and a faulty electoral system as the bane of Nigerian politics to Ambassador Adedotun Adepoju who reminisced Nigeria diplomatic relations and insisted that Africa must continue to be the center piece of Nigerian foreign policy. The scholars and panelist agreed that there is so much to do in Nigeria by young persons and therefore they must be free as citizens to take advantage of government initiatives to develop their capacities across board.

However, for Taiwo Akerele, country Representative of Policy House International, the only way poverty and brain drain can be curbed in Nigeria is for the government to invest more technical in education, SME and private sector involvement in infrastructure financing.

Akerele in his paper, Nigeria at 61, reflections on governance, economy and the challenges before the next generation called on Nigerian youths to be more engaging in their quest to be part of the development of the country especially as the not too young to run bill as been passed by the national assembly.

Akerele who is also the Abuja chapter of Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) Abuja insisted that government must revive reading culture, increase its investment in basic education and agriculture for a better society. He called for a change in spending to investment in human capital especially in the technical education sector of the economy.

The University of Ibadan social science annual independence lecture was well attended by students, civil society organizations, members of the diplomatic community and the media.

Awards were later given to the winners of the HOD cup by the HoD Prof Remi Aiyede and assisted by Comrade Habeeb Habeeb the president of the students union of Association of political science students of the university.

As Nigeria commemorate the 61 years of Independence, the Southern Nigeria Frontier SNF, wish to commend Nigerians, for their resilience, as the nation struggles towards experiencing the actualization of the promises of government, at various levels in the country, 61 years after the country attained Independence from colonial rule.

61 years after attaining Independence, our country still grapple with the failure of successive leadership, to actualize the dreams and aspirations, of our founding fathers, towards building a NATION from the country called Nigeria, bequeathed unto us, by the colonialists.

At 61 years, we have continued to spend a greater part of our productive national life and government focus, on issues of cattle grazing, grazing reserves and cattle routes. The federal government rather than preoccupying itself with issues that promotes national unity and cohesion, has been busy with mundane issues, that have polarised the country, in a manner, unprecedented in our history.

As we commemorate this 61 years of Independence amidst our continued quest for nationhood, the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari must commence a deliberate state policy, that will immediately end the serial violations of the Federal Character principle through skewed appointments, failure of obligation in line with the constitutionally mandated state policy of the security and welfare of the citizens, and take adequate measures, towards decisively bringing an end to the fastly growing trend of all manner of insurgency, in the country.

The time we are, is so sensitive, that the administration of President Buhari should halt every tendencies, which undermines democracy and encourage a totalitarian government, which does not regard the role and powers of the federating units, particularly the states, in decision making, revenue generation and the promulgation of laws, that can allow the smooth operations, of the Constituent units, that make up the federal republic of Nigeria.

Finally, we wish to restate our commitment, to the collective aspiration of our people, which support the prohibition of the antiquated Open Grazing system and the popular demand, that the principles of equity, fairness and Justice be respected by political parties in the 2023 general elections, by ensuring that the Presidency of Nigeria, returns to the Southern part of the country.

It's Independence Day, but we say, not yet Uhuru....



Signed:

Olufemi Lawson
Spokesman,
Southern Nigeria Frontier SNF

By: Wisdom Okoh

Soon, Nigerians will rollout drums to celebrate one unique agency of the federal government which has distinguished itself outstandingly in public leadership. TheLeaderNG, an online media platform and, high profile experts in development journalism, who are the publishers of the www.theleaderng.com will celebrate the North East Development Commission (NEDC) for its iconic footprints in public space.

The commission, newly established by the FGN is mandated to cushion the effects of insurgency in the Northeast region. The NEDC has discharged this onerous responsibility with an uncommon zeal, determination and explosively, which has earned it, the rare award soon to be conferred on it by TheLeaderNG in the next few days.

A letter communicating this cheering news to the NEDC management, signed by Mr. Mohammed Basah, the innovative media platform stated that its “Diligence Council” unanimously voted the NEDC as the “Public Agency of the Year,” for the assessment Year 2021 because it impressively and astoundingly delivered on its mandate to the people.

The letter of award transmitted to the commission read in part, “…the North East Development Commission (NEDC) under your able watch in the face of a seemingly insurmountable charge by President Muhammadu Buhari, and how you have gone about the task with surgical precision to exceed reasonable expectations of stakeholders, has been adjudged as an exemplary performer in delivering public and services. Our assessment of the NEDC against others showed that the NEDC over all, has been an exemplary model of transparency and probity, while building a world class intervention agency with visible and measurable impact on the citizenry.”

Very many Nigerians are unaware that the country bask in over 500 Ministries, Agencies and Departments (MDAs) of Government mandated with various responsibilities to make life more meaningful for Nigerians or serve as a bridge between the masses and the government.

But to assert that countless MDAs hardly make impacts on public challenges is stating the obvious. Most often, those mandated to lead these MDAs turn themselves into siphoning pipes for personal enrichment. The chief executives or heads of some of these agencies of government even dread accountability or cringe at the mere mention of anti-graft agencies or oversight functions by national parliamentarians.

Therefore, many of them exists only for the purpose of expending national resources unrewardingly. In spite of this subsisting challenge, heads of some of these MDAs have really distinguished themselves in public leadership. A notable example is the newly established North East Development Commission (NEDC), merely above two years of existence.

The operations of the NEDC fully commenced in 2019. And in slightly above two years, the NEDC has demonstrated itself as an agency which has overpowered the Nigeria’s regressive cancer and exculpated itself from the cultured setbacks of non-performing federal agencies.

No one in Nigeria can dispute that nursing an agency of government from scratch to fruition and to the extent of registering bold imprints in its sphere of jurisdiction is a herculean task. Nigerians have experienced such federal government intervention agencies in the country and the mess some of them have posted in national psyche. That’s why national development competitively eludes the citizenry on a broad scale.

However, the shining example of the NEDC is a reference point in Nigeria’s recent history. As an agency charged with the humanitarian-inclined responsibility of bringing succour to the distraught, distressed and traumatized people in the Northeast region, ravaged by Boko Haram insurgency for over a decade, all eyes were set on the agency to assess its positive manifestations. Some with sinister intentions even threw maliciously distractive and bruising darts at the NEDC management.

But it never deterred the commission’s management which is always conscious of its supreme mandate mainly as reducing or completely eradicating the impact of the multi-faceted humanitarian crises in the Northeast generated by the multi-dimensional destructions of public infrastructures, orchestrated and sustained by insurgency. The commission also recognized itself as pillar of the peace-building, reconciliation and de-radicalization agenda of the President Muhammadu Buhari’s Government in complementary roles of fighting the final blight of terrorism in the region.

Nonetheless, and in spite of the initial public skepticisms, the NEDC’s Managing Director, Alhaji Mohammed Goni Alkali and his management team have surprised Nigerians. NEDC operations commenced in 2019, with the initial grant of a paltry N10 billion from the FGN. And in less than a year of its operations, the global coronavirus pandemic struck and Nigeria was adversely affected by it, and the commission inclusive.

But pleasurably, the NEDC has effectively executed its mandate in mollifying ambiences to the people. More exciting, its exemplary performance has caught the attention of the international bodies, including the World Bank which have are already partnering with the commission in bettering the humanitarian crisis in the Northeast region.

And despite the hard hit on the economy, NEDC pulled itself from such entanglements to reach out to distraught people in the 112 LGAs and 1,028 council wards of the Northeast region. It’s a rare feat, especially, if gleaned from the reality that the NEDC management refused to be tethered to the obstacles and leeches of take-off, as peculiar with most new national establishments, as known in Nigeria.

And today, Nigerians particularly, the targeted population in the Northeast is beaming with smiles of a better life because NEDC has through specialized training, tutored the people on how to detonate terrorists discreetly planted and unexploded landmines in their communities. It is no longer a job abandoned to the Nigerian Military alone, which is grimly fighting to blight the final fires of the cursed jihadists bloody campaigners in the region.

Through, the commission’s ambitious policy of Multisectoral Crisis Recovery Project (MCRP), actively backed by the World Bank, the NEDC is vigorously pursuing its agenda of sponsorship of education for youths of the region. It has berthed it through yearly scholarship grants in diverse areas of academic studies from first to doctor of philosophy (Ph.D) degrees under the Education Endowment Fund project in the region.

The NEDC has also impacted in the areas of drinking water and sanitation facilities in states of the Northeast and other humanitarian reliefs projects ensconced in the “Rapid Response Intervention’s” (RRI) supportive schemes in the region. Through it, the commission has boldly deployed its relief weapons in agriculture, resolving the challenge of massive hunger and starvation in states of the Northeast ravaged by Boko Haram terrorism.

Therefore, its “Integrated Agriculture Programme,’ (IAP) supplies agricultural machinery or equipment, agrochemicals, fertilizers, seeds and extension service logistics vehicles to boost all categories of agricultural activities. And from every indication, soonest, the Northeast would overcome the problem of hunger/starvation caused by insurgency through investments in the farming skills of individual families at the expense of the commission’s funds.

The entire world has become digital and its one of the empowerments of humanity opposed by the ideology of Boko Haram. To splash mud on the faces of insurgents and their sponsors, NEDC has introduced and upgraded training and updating of Information Communication Technology (ICT) talents of young Nigerian Northeasterners to explore the globe.

NEDC is also actively assisting the Nigerian military in its operations with operational vehicles and logistics. The commission has also keyed into the De-radicalization, Rehabilitation and Reintegration (DRR) Programme of the Nigerian Military tagged “Operation Safe Corridor” (OSC) domiciled at Malam-Sidi, in Gombe State.

With this surfeit of accomplishments, TheLeaderNG’s boss Mr. Basah exclaimed in utter amazement, the continuously resonated glories of the NEDC thus; “This award puts the NEDC on a pedestal as a model for other public institutions to emulate in building a new Nigeria of our dreams with a diversified economic base away from the overdependence….”

No doubt and even to the blind, the NEDC has been able to enthrone good governance in line with its mandate, by radiantly invading the humanitarian segment of crises in Nigeria’s public domain. The NEDC truly deserves this converted and highly priced award from TheLeaderNG. #


Wisdom Okoh wrote this piece from
Abuja.