NYSC Scheme, A Disguised One Year Cage For The Nigerian Youths By Adesina Oluwaseun

Today, another set of great Nigerian youths who are privileged to undergo the mandatory one year compulsory service to their fathers land have been discharged by the federal government today from the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to face the undiluted reality of the Nigerian society, where their intelligence, qualifications, or course of study in the University may not bring them employment but the grace of God and personal connections may do the trick. The reliance on who you know may be what is needed by these youths to get them the paid job they need to move their lives ahead.

The Nigerian youths have been serving their fathers' land since 1977, though initially, the scheme was enjoyed for many years by fresh graduates, but now, the story is a complete opposite. The youths are not asking for much, just an enabling environment and the necessary amenities that will encourage the growth of industries and even start-up businesses as well.

Truly, more needs to be done in the revamping of the NYSC scheme in meeting the present economic challenges. The introduction of skills acquisition during the camping period and the loan scheme are great ideas that need to be sustained and improved upon. The scheme should be made attractive to prospective corps members so that they would look forward to service, unlike what is attainable now, so they no longer view the one year compulsory service as a waste of their time.

Today, what hope is there for theses gallant youths who have completed the mandatory service? What are their fates? Do they have to Know the President or politicians or be political touts before getting a job? Or should they have to sleep with Captains of industries before getting employment? It is so sad that after all the sleepless nights to become a graduate, they still have to face all these hurdles.

To my Brothers and Sisters, who are passing out today, I say Congratulations to you.You are welcome to the favor market, where it's not about what u study that matters but how you are able to BRAND, PACKAGE and SELL yourself to the employers of labour that matters because we live in a world where most are not ready to give you a chance to prove inner worth or capability.

God bless the Nigeria Youth.
God bless Nigeria