The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has warned that employers who fail to provide accommodation and transportation for corps members posted to their organisations will be barred from participating in the scheme.

Director-General of the NYSC, Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, issued the warning during an interactive session with corps members on a working visit to Kogi State, according to a statement shared by the scheme on its official social media platforms on Tuesday.

Nafiu said the measure was aimed at improving the welfare of corps members and ensuring that organisations benefiting from the scheme fulfilled their responsibilities.

“Any employer who did not provide accommodation and transportation for Corps Members would be blacklisted from enjoying Corps services,” he declared.

He urged employers to prioritise the welfare of corps members, stressing that adequate support would improve their productivity and overall service experience.

The NYSC Director-General also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to the safety and well-being of corps members across the country.

“The Federal Government is resolutely committed to your security and welfare,” he said, while calling on state governments, local government authorities and other stakeholders to strengthen support for the scheme.

Nafiu reminded corps members that security remained a collective responsibility and advised them to promptly report suspicious movements or activities to the appropriate security agencies.

He further charged them to uphold discipline, remain committed to their primary assignments and avoid conduct capable of bringing the NYSC into disrepute.

The DG also encouraged corps members to take advantage of the post-camp Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme, describing it as a pathway to self-reliance.

“Be proactive, identify business opportunities within your host communities, and start making some money for yourselves even now,” he advised.

Against the backdrop of prevailing economic realities, Nafiu also urged corps members to cultivate prudent financial habits and embrace a savings culture.

“Take your service year as a training ground for future financial management by managing your finances wisely,” he added.

Earlier, the NYSC State Coordinator in Kogi, Mrs. Tochi Chika Chris-Moneke, commended the Director-General for the visit, describing it as a demonstration of his commitment to the welfare and security of corps members and staff.

She also revealed that the Kogi State secretariat was preparing to organise a workshop for corps employers as well as a Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers programme in the coming weeks.