The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has entered into a strategic partnership with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to equip corps members with financial and digital literacy skills, marking a significant step towards preparing young Nigerians for a more knowledge-driven economy.
The collaboration was formalised through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the NYSC Headquarters in Abuja, where both agencies expressed commitment to empowering corps members with practical knowledge that extends beyond their primary assignments.
Director General of NYSC, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, described the initiative as timely, noting that corps members represent a critical segment of the nation’s future workforce and leadership. He emphasised that exposing them to financial and digital education would not only enhance their personal development but also strengthen their capacity to contribute meaningfully to national growth.
According to him, “The way you relate with them, build and mentor them will greatly impact their future and the nation.” He added that corps members are “ready, resilient and committed young Nigerians that require mentorship,” stressing that proper investment in their development would yield long-term benefits for the country.
Nafiu also affirmed NYSC’s readiness to sustain the partnership, stating that the collaboration would benefit the Scheme, corps members, and the wider public, especially as participants are expected to transfer knowledge to communities across the country.
Speaking on behalf of SEC, its Director General, Dr Emomotimi Agama, highlighted the importance of equipping young Nigerians with financial intelligence and digital awareness in an evolving economic landscape. He noted that corps members, due to their nationwide deployment, are uniquely positioned to drive grassroots sensitisation.
He said exposing them to “financial education and financial freedom” would prepare them for future leadership roles, while also enabling them to educate others within their host communities.
Agama further acknowledged the unique structure of NYSC, stating that its presence across the country makes it an unmatched platform for national development initiatives, particularly in areas of awareness, inclusion, and capacity building.
“The essence of NYSC cannot be over-emphasised in terms of culture, association, networking and future relations,” he said, expressing confidence in the impact of the partnership.
