UN Lauds NYSC's Contribution to Nigeria's Youth Development
By Victor Idajili
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) is playing a vital role in Nigeria's youth development, according to Felipe Paullier, UN Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs. He made the remark at the launch of NYSC's Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers (HIRD) in Abuja, emphasizing the scheme's impact on promoting national unity and development.
In a statement issued by the Director,Information and Public Relations,Caroline Embu, Paullier praised NYSC's free medical interventions in rural areas, saying it's contributing to a better world. Since 2014, over 5 million Nigerians have benefited from the initiative, with 45,000 expected to benefit this year. The UN official noted that his visit to Nigeria aimed to strengthen partnerships with youth organizations, including NYSC, to advance the youth agenda and promote development, peace, and human rights.
NYSC Director-General, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, said the scheme aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals 1 and 3, aiming to end poverty and promote good health. He thanked Nigeria's First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for donating two new mobile clinics to enhance the scheme's outreach.
The event featured free medical services, health talks, and the launch of the mobile clinics. The NYSC boss thanked partners and medical personnel for their support, saying their contributions will be remembered. The traditional leader of Kabusa village praised NYSC for bringing healthcare to their doorstep, describing it as a first-of-its-kind initiative.
The NYSC's HIRD programme provides health sensitization, medical consultations, treatment, diagnosis, laboratory tests, and eye care services to rural communities. The scheme's efforts have been supported by partners, including Genlab/Doc.roa and Rabiu Olowo Foundation.
