Corps Members Have Comprehensive Insurance Coverage, NYSC DG Assures

The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps, Olakunle Nafiu, has assured that all corps members are protected by a comprehensive insurance package throughout their service year, covering both life and medical expenses.

Nafiu gave the assurance on Wednesday in Abuja during a visit by the Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria, Jibrin Ndace. He stated that the Federal Government has put in place measures to guarantee a safe and rewarding service experience for corps members, with provisions for interventions beyond standard health insurance coverage.

The NYSC boss recalled past instances where the scheme intervened financially to save the lives of corps members. He cited the payment of ₦28 million to secure the life of a pregnant corps member and her unborn child following a spinal cord injury sustained in a road accident. He also mentioned another case where ₦33 million was provided for prosthetic arms for a corps member involved in a 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 caters for corps members whenever they fall ill,” Nafiu said.

He emphasised that insurance coverage begins the moment call-up letters are issued, even before corps members depart from their parents’ homes.

The director-general also cautioned against the spread of unverified information about the scheme, urging journalists to always confirm facts with the NYSC before publication.

On posting policy, Nafiu explained that deployments are designed to meet national needs, ensuring equitable distribution of corps members across all states, particularly in critical sectors such as healthcare and education. He noted that the contributions of corps members to national assignments, including elections, sensitisation campaigns, and census exercises, have earned commendation both locally and internationally.

He further assured that corps members would not be posted to unsafe areas, reiterating that the scheme remains apolitical and non-religious in its commitment to fostering national unity.

Nafiu commended Ndace for his leadership and efforts in transforming the Voice of Nigeria through digital innovation, while also appreciating the media for its continued support of the NYSC.

In his remarks, Ndace congratulated Nafiu on his appointment and praised his modern leadership approach. He noted that no leader succeeds without a supportive team and commended the NYSC management for its collaborative spirit.

Ndace reaffirmed VON’s commitment to partnering with the NYSC on content development and youth-focused programming. He stated that the organisation would continue to project the activities of corps members and highlight the scheme’s initiatives to a global audience.

“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.