The National Youth Service Corps scheme which was established by decree no 24 of 22nd May, 1973 has never been on fire like in the past few days. The post-election violence which erupted in the Northern part of Nigeria after the presidential poll led to the death of many youth corps members. Because of this, many parents, youth bodies and other concerned citizens have been calling for the scrapping of the scheme.
It was reported on this site during the week that the deputy senate president, Senator Ike Ekweremadu said he would push for the review of the act establishing the scheme in the floor of the Senate. During the week also, The Minister of Youth Development, Senator Olasunkanmi Akinlabi, during an interview with Tunde Oyekola of Nigerian Tribune in Osogbo said the present govt. is considering a serious review on the NYSC scheme. He postulated that the review will soon be unfolded. If a senior member of the legislative arm of govt. and a member of the Federal executive council say they are reviewing the scheme, then one should consider it done. I think this is a good news for parents, youth bodies and every concerned citizen that have agitated for the scrapping of the scheme.
Find below the interview granted by the minister to the Nigerian Tribune.
The Minister of Youth Development, Senator Olasunkanmi Akinlabi, has said that the present administration is currently conducting serious policy review on the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme, which will soon be unfolded.
Senator Akinlabi, who disclosed this while speaking with newsmen at Ode-Omu, his home town, in Osun State, assured the country that the reform when commenced would assist in the development of the youth.
Commenting on the 2011 general election, which came to an end in most parts of the country on Tuesday, the minister commended the corps members’ gallantry in participating in the polls for the development of Nigeria’s democracy.
He reiterated Federal Government’s commitment to the security and welfare of corps members at all times.
According to him, the Federal Government appreciated their bravery despite all the unfortunate incidents recent as well as their gallantry in making these elections a success.
Speaking on the victory of President Goodluck Jonathan, Senator Akinlabi said that the president would bring all opponents on board to build the country.
He contended that globally and nationally if people desired a change, it should be welcome since it was a way of giving other political parties a chance to see what they could offer the country.
Akinlabi, therefore, urged Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the country to re-strategise and put its house in order and become stronger again.
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