NYSC marks 53rd anniversary in Jigawa with fitness walk and lecture, highlighting decades of youth service, integration and development impact

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Jigawa State has marked its 53rd anniversary with a fitness walk and public lecture held at the state capital, Dutse, bringing together corps members, officials, and stakeholders in a commemorative exercise.

Also read: Arbeloa Leaves Real Madrid Coaching Role Officially

The celebration began with a fitness walk from the NYSC State Secretariat along the Dutse–Shuwarin Road, before proceeding through Maikwarya Road near the Government House, as participants reflected on over five decades of national service.

Established on May 22, 1973, the NYSC predates Jigawa State, which was created in 1991. Despite this, the scheme has remained a key contributor to development in the state through the deployment of corps members across education, healthcare, agriculture, and community development sectors.

Speaking at a public lecture held at the NYSC Secretariat, State Coordinator Muhammad Baba described the scheme as a major pillar of national integration, noting that it has mobilised millions of graduates across Nigeria’s diverse cultural and religious landscape.

He said the programme has become deeply embedded in the country’s social structure, contributing significantly to unity, manpower development, and post-civil war reconciliation efforts.

The NYSC 53rd anniversary also highlighted the scheme’s role in supporting rural communities, particularly in addressing manpower gaps in critical sectors such as education and healthcare.

Baba further emphasised the NYSC’s involvement in Nigeria’s electoral process, describing corps members as essential ad hoc staff during elections across the country.

He noted ongoing reforms within the scheme, particularly the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme, which he said was designed to equip young graduates with practical skills for self-reliance and job creation.

According to him, the future of the NYSC lies in continuous improvement while maintaining its founding objective of national unity and youth development.

Corps members who participated in the activities described the experience as impactful, saying it exposed them to Nigeria’s cultural diversity and expanded their personal development.

Aisha Musa, a corps member, said her service year had broadened her understanding of different communities, while Yusuf Ibrahim said the SAED programme had provided him with entrepreneurial skills for life after service.

Also read: I Won Delta North APC Primary, Results Manipulated- Ned Nwoko

The event was concluded with renewed calls for the strengthening of the NYSC scheme as a tool for national cohesion and youth empowerment.