NYSC Remains Vital Tool for National Integration — Ex-DG Olawumi

Oru Leonard 

A former Director-General of the NYSC, Johnson Olawunmi, has reaffirmed the Scheme’s enduring relevance to national unity and development more than five decades after its establishment.

Olawunmi stated this during a recent interaction with the current NYSC DG, Nafiu, in Abuja, where he highlighted the Scheme’s contributions to community development, cultural integration, and national cohesion.

According to him, the NYSC has consistently lived up to its founding ideals despite operational challenges, serving as a bridge across ethnic, religious, and socio-economic divides.

He praised the quality and dedication of NYSC staff, describing them as one of the most competent teams he worked with, and urged the current leadership to continue harnessing their potential.
The former DG also noted that he has remained actively interested in the Scheme’s progress, offering guidance when necessary.

In his remarks, Nafiu said his visit was to honour his predecessor and commend his legacy, particularly the introduction of the Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers (HIRD), which has expanded access to healthcare in underserved communities, as well as reforms such as the e-registration system.

Olawunmi served as NYSC Director-General from January 2014 to April 2016.