President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered the immediate employment of 200 outstanding National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members into the Federal Civil Service in recognition of their exceptional contributions to national development during the 2020–2023 service years.
Each honouree will also receive a cash reward of N250,000 and a postgraduate scholarship to pursue further studies at any university in Nigeria.
The directive was announced during the combined President’s NYSC Honours Award Ceremony held in Abuja. Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, who represented President Tinubu at the event, conveyed the president’s appreciation for the awardees’ “discipline, commitment, selflessness, teamwork, patriotism, and integrity.”
“The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation and the Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission have been instructed to begin the employment process without delay,” she said.
In a further show of inclusivity, President Tinubu also approved federal employment for 10 physically challenged ex-Corps members who sustained injuries during their service. “We will never forget their sacrifice,” the president assured.
The President reiterated his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment, noting that “the government has developed numerous youth-centred programmes covering education, skills development, technology, and sustainable innovation.”
The NYSC Honours Awards, established in 1974, aim to celebrate the contributions of Corps members who have demonstrated exceptional patriotism, leadership, and community service across Nigeria. President Tinubu lauded the NYSC as a pillar of national unity and urged Nigerian youths to remain committed to building the country.
“Do not be swayed by forces that seek to destabilise our nation. Have faith in Nigeria and the promise it holds,” he said.
Among the recipients of the President’s Honours Award were:
- Nunaya Polycarp Nunaya (20B) from Adamawa State, who served in Kwara State
- Okpogbo Alvin Chinedu (21A) from Imo State, who served in Cross River State
- Dr. Ugwa Obinna Mark (23B) from Abia State, who served in Cross River State
- Rabiu Quadri Mayokun (23C) from Osun State, who served in Rivers State
In the female category, top honourees included:
- Akase Pati Ence Nguwasen (21A) from Benue State, who served in Gombe State
- Igwe Anne Chikaodi (23C) from Enugu State, who served in Sokoto State
Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, praised President Tinubu for his steadfast dedication to empowering Nigeria’s young population. “Each honouree here today represents the very best of Nigerian youth driven, disciplined, and visionary,” Olawande said.
He further emphasized the administration’s support for youth-focused initiatives in areas such as job creation, renewable energy, innovation, and leadership development, noting that several young Nigerians have already been appointed to key positions within the federal government.
