The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps, Olakunle Nafiu, has reaffirmed that corps members are covered by a comprehensive insurance package throughout their service year.

Nafiu stated this on Wednesday in Abuja during a visit by the Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria, Jibrin Ndace, noting that the welfare package includes both life insurance and medical care.

He explained that the Federal Government has put in place measures to ensure corps members enjoy a safe and memorable service experience, adding that the scheme also intervenes in cases not covered by health insurance.

The NYSC boss cited past interventions, including the payment of ₦28 million to save the life of a pregnant corps member and her unborn child after a spinal cord injury from a road accident.

He added that ₦33 million for prosthetic arms was provided for another corps member involved in a road crash while travelling to his place of primary assignment.

“Since 2004, every Corps Member has been covered by comprehensive insurance, including health and life insurance. The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) caters for Corps Members whenever they fall ill,” he said.

“From the moment call-up letters are issued—before they even begin their journey from their parents’ homes—they are already covered by insurance,” he added.

Nafiu cautioned against the spread of unverified reports about the scheme, urging journalists to always confirm facts with the NYSC before publication.

He further explained that the scheme’s posting policy is designed to meet national needs, ensuring all states benefit from corps members’ contributions, particularly in healthcare and education.

According to him, corps members’ participation in national assignments such as elections, sensitisation campaigns, and census exercises has been widely commended both locally and internationally.

The NYSC DG also assured that corps members would not be deployed to unsafe areas, stressing that the scheme remains apolitical and non-religious to sustain its role in promoting national unity.

He commended the VON boss for his leadership and efforts in transforming the media landscape through digital innovation, while appreciating the media for its continued support.

Earlier, Ndace congratulated Nafiu on his appointment and praised his leadership style since assuming office.

“General Nafiu has demonstrated a modern leadership style. I commend the NYSC management, as no leader succeeds without the support of their team,” he said.

“At the Voice of Nigeria, our mandate is to project Nigeria’s image, perspectives, and values to the global community. We currently broadcast in eight Nigerian languages,” he added.

Ndace also reaffirmed VON’s commitment to partnering with NYSC on content development and youth-focused programming, pledging to amplify the activities of corps members and showcase the scheme’s initiatives to a global audience. (The PUNCH)

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