By Bavoriat Clara
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, Nigerian Army, Sokoto, Major General Ibikunle Ajose, has hailed the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) as one of Nigeria’s most valuable assets, stressing that it must be protected and nurtured with utmost dedication.
Speaking at Giginya Cantonment, Sokoto, during a courtesy visit by the NYSC Director General, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, the GOC described the relationship between the Nigerian Army and the NYSC as “deeply symbiotic,” driven by shared commitment to national service and youth development.“
In our effort to ensure no Corps Member falls victim to any mishap, we strictly enforce the ban on night travels,” General Ajose said. “By 1700 hours, any Corps Member in transit must stop at the nearest Army formation, spend the night, and resume the journey the following morning. This standing order is sacrosanct.”
He applauded the NYSC’s enduring contributions to nation-building since its establishment in 1973, while condemning the rejection of Corps Members by some employers. “Corps Members are talented, resourceful, and professionally competent. Every employer should see them as an asset whose skills can be harnessed for growth,” he stated.
Major General Ajose also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Brigadier General Nafiu as NYSC’s Director General, describing him as “one of the finest officers of the Nigerian Army courageous, intelligent, forthright, and endowed with enviable administrative acumen.”
Earlier, Brigadier General Nafiu expressed appreciation for the Army’s consistent support to the NYSC across the four states under 8 Division’s jurisdiction. He praised the GOC’s proactive role in safeguarding Corps Members’ welfare and security.
“I have received comprehensive reports of your generous interventions from the NYSC Sokoto State Coordinator,” the DG said. “These include the renovation of hostels for collaborating agencies at the NYSC Orientation Camp in Wammako, sponsorship of camp activities, travel advisories for Corps Members, and several other support initiatives.”
The NYSC Director General appealed for sustained cooperation, pledging that the Scheme will continue to promote unity, patriotism, and selfless service among Nigerian youths.
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