The National Youths Service Corps (NYSC) says it is planning to introduce a loan package for corps members in view of the prevailing economic hardship in the country.
The Director-General of the scheme, Brig.-Gen. Sule Zakari, made this disclosure on Monday in Sokoto when he addressed the 2016, Batch “A” corps members.
Kazaure stated that the proposed loan package is being packaged in partnership with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Bank of Industry ( BoI).
“The loan scheme will provide certain amount of interest-free loans to the corps members after the completion of their one year service.
“The money will be advanced to them with a view to establishing their various business ventures as the white collar jobs are becoming increasingly scarce.
“The beneficiaries are expected to be made self reliant and even become employers of labour,” Zakari said.
The NYSC, D-G urged the corps members to be passionate in whatever they do, saying, “doing so will help you to explore your potentials and capabilities.”
Zakari further reminded the corps members that NYSC is all about national service and national integration.
He averred that the management of the scheme were encouraging inter-marriages amongst the corps members.
The D-G said that the various activities lined up at the orientation camp were aimed at preparing them for the challenges ahead during and after service.
Zakari called on the corps to integrate with the host communities, dress decently, as well as respect their cultures and traditions.
He admonished the corps members to help in providing the needs of their host communities.
“You should endeavour to transform the host communities by adding value to them,” Zakari urged.
The D-G also warned the corps members against unnecessary and unauthorised journeys during their service year.
He assured the corps members that the management of the scheme and all the stakeholders were fully committed to their security and general welfare.
The 1604 corps members deployed to the state are currently undergoing a three-week orientation at the NYSC camp in Wamakko, Sokoto State.
Meanwhile, Zakari said the monthly corps members’ allowances, currently at current N19, 800 might be increased if the economy of the country improved.
“The proposed upward review of the allowances is important in view of the current socio-economic hardship in the country,” he added.
Zakari urged the corps members to shun all vices, as well as uphold the virtues of commitment, hard work, diligence and excellence.
The DG assured that excellent services by the corps members will be rewarded with a presidential merit award.
“This award automatically attracts a cash reward and an automatic employment by the Federal Government”, he added.
The state NYSC Coordinator, Mr Thomas Yamma also commended Zakari for his commitment to corps members welfare and security.
The chairman of the NYSC governing board in the state, Alhaji Abubakar Ladan pledged the commitment of the state government to the welfare and security of the corps members.
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