NYSC @48: Gowon, Governors Unveil 9 Books, Maiden Film on Scheme
Former military Head-of-State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, has described the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) as a ‘source of pride’ to Nigeria.
He also noted that the Scheme is one of the foremost youths’ organisations recognized not only within the country, but across the world.
On his part, Engr. Abdullahi Sule, Governor of Nasarawa State, asserted that the NYSC is the ‘perfect definition of Nigeria’s unity’.
Gowon and Sule, spoke on Thursday, when nine books on the Scheme were officially unveiled, in Abuja.
A trailer of the maiden ‘NYSC film’ was also screened, at the event.
The auspicious ceremony was in commemoration of the ’48th Anniversary’ of the NYSC.
According to Gen. Gowon, now retired, the enviable feats recorded by the Scheme in the last 48 years are ‘no mean achievements’.
He maintained that the nine books on NYSC will help promote a deeper understanding, while also addressing the misconceptions about the Scheme.
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He noted that the NYSC has greatly promoted national development and cohesion among diverse Nigerians, since it was established in 1973.
Gowon, however said greater efforts on the part of the Federal Government is needed to adequately fund and sustain the Scheme.
“There is need to set up a NYSC Trust Fund to finance the entire operations of the Scheme, adequately,” he added.
Gov. Sule, applauded the steps already taken by the present management of NYSC to document the rich history and memorable accomplishments of the Scheme over the past four decades, describing it as commendable.
He promised to join other proponents and advocates for the Scheme in propagating the core objectives of the NYSC.
Earlier in his address, Brig. Gen. Shuaibu Ibrahim, the NYSC Director General, said their Scheme has remained the most successful national programme established to address basic challenges that usually confront a developing nation and diverse society such as Nigeria.
According to him, the survival of the Scheme is indeed a pointer to its resilience and continued relevance to national development.
He noted: “Deliberate steps have been taken to strengthen it for greater impact and keep alive the vision of the founding fathers. The prospects of the Scheme are no doubt reassuring.”
