UN Official Hails NYSC as Key Driver of Youth Development
By Alabidun Shuaib AbdulRahman
The Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs and Head of the United Nations Youth Office, Felipe Paullier, has described the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, as a critical agent in advancing youth development in Nigeria.
Paullier made the remark during the flag-off of the NYSC Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers held in Kabusa community, Abuja.
The UN official, who was on an official visit to Nigeria, said his trip was aimed at engaging key youth organisations, including the NYSC, as well as other stakeholders, to promote youth participation in development, peace, and human rights.
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“I have interacted with many young and old Nigerians who are proud of their NYSC experiences,” he said.
He commended the scheme for its sustained free medical outreach to rural communities, noting that the initiative was contributing to efforts at building a healthier society.
Earlier, the NYSC Director-General, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, disclosed that over five million Nigerians had benefited from the Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers since its inception in 2014.
He added that the scheme projected to reach about 45,000 additional beneficiaries this year, leveraging two newly acquired mobile clinics donated by the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu.
Nafiu expressed appreciation to the First Lady for the donation, describing it as a significant boost to the scheme’s healthcare outreach.
He also revealed plans by the NYSC to introduce free minor surgical procedures for rural dwellers under the initiative.
According to him, the programme aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3 on good health and well-being, as well as Goal 1 on poverty reduction, by improving access to healthcare and reducing financial burdens on vulnerable households.
The NYSC boss further commended partners, donors, and corps medical personnel for their contributions to sustaining the initiative over the years.
“I am proud of you and your valuable contributions to our nation’s development. Your selfless services will always be remembered,” he said.
In his remarks, the Dakachi of Kabusa, Chief Samuel A. Kpowu, appreciated the NYSC for bringing free medical services to the community, describing it as unprecedented.
Also speaking, the Acting Director, Community Development Service and Special Projects, Funmilayo Ajayi, said the outreach featured health education, medical consultations, laboratory tests, eye care services, and referrals where necessary.
Highlights of the event included the unveiling and inspection of the mobile clinics by the UN official alongside the NYSC Director-General, as well as a health talk delivered by a corps medical doctor, Else Ibrahim, who translated key messages into the Gbagyi language.
The outreach was supported by partner organisations, including Genlab/Doc.roa and Rabiu Olowo Foundation.
