NYSC Drives Youth Development, Rural Healthcare Delivery — UN Youth Chief

The Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs and Head of the United Nations Youth Office, Felipe Paullier, has described the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) as a critical agent in advancing youth development in Nigeria.

Paullier made the remark during the flag-off of the NYSC’s Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers (HIRD) at Kabusa community in the Federal Capital Territory. He noted that his visit to Nigeria was focused on engaging key youth organisations, particularly the NYSC, alongside other stakeholders to strengthen the role of young people in development, peacebuilding, and human rights.

“I have interacted with many Nigerians who are proud of their NYSC experiences,” he said, while commending the Scheme’s sustained provision of free medical services to underserved rural communities.

In his address, the NYSC Director-General, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, disclosed that since the launch of HIRD in 2014, over five million Nigerians have benefited from its free medical outreach programmes. He added that the Scheme aims to reach an additional 45,000 rural dwellers this year.

Nafiu also highlighted the recent donation of two mobile clinics by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, which he said would significantly expand the reach and impact of the initiative. He further revealed plans to introduce free minor surgical procedures under the HIRD programme.

According to the DG, the initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and Goal 1 (No Poverty), by improving healthcare access and reducing financial burdens on vulnerable populations.

He expressed appreciation to the Scheme’s partners, donors, and corps medical personnel for their dedication and selfless service to rural communities.

In his vote of thanks, the Dakachi of Kabusa village, Chief Samuel A. Kpowu, lauded the NYSC for bringing free healthcare services to his people, describing the intervention as unprecedented.

Earlier, the Acting Director of Community Development Service and Special Projects (CDS & SP), Mrs Funmilayo Ajayi, outlined the scope of services provided during the two-day outreach. These include health education, medical consultations, diagnosis, laboratory tests, eye care services, and referrals where necessary.

A major highlight of the event was the unveiling and inspection of the newly donated mobile clinics by the UN official alongside the NYSC leadership.