JUST-IN: President Tinubu Announces Federal Jobs And Cash Awards For 200 NYSC Honourees.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced a significant initiative to reward exceptional service among Nigeria’s youth, directing the immediate employment of 200 former National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members into the federal civil service. The announcement was made during the President’s NYSC Honours Award Ceremony for the 2020–2023 service years, held at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
In addition to securing federal employment, each of the 200 honourees will receive a cash award of ₦250,000, recognising their outstanding contributions during their mandatory service year. The President, represented by the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, praised the recipients for their discipline, commitment, and patriotism, which he described as exemplary qualities that strengthen national unity.
The honourees were selected for their exceptional performance across the four core components of the NYSC programme: the Orientation Course, Primary Assignment, Community Development Service (CDS), and Winding-Up/Passing-Out activities. Their efforts, which include impactful community projects and dedicated service, have left a lasting mark on communities nationwide.
President Tinubu also extended his compassion to 10 former corps members recognised under the NYSC Hope Alive Initiative. These individuals, who sustained permanent disabilities during their service, will also receive automatic federal employment. The President assured them that their sacrifices have not been forgotten, underscoring his administration’s commitment to inclusivity.
Further sweetening the deal, each of the 200 award recipients will be granted a scholarship to pursue postgraduate studies up to a degree level at any university in Nigeria. This gesture aligns with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises youth empowerment through education, skills development, and leadership opportunities.
The Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, lauded the initiative, noting that it reflects the government’s dedication to fostering youth potential. “These young Nigerians have shown what is possible when commitment meets opportunity. They are role models for the next generation,” he said.
The ceremony also highlighted the broader impact of the NYSC scheme, established in 1973 to promote national unity. The Director-General of NYSC, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, revealed that corps members have driven significant progress, from supporting national elections to providing free healthcare to over four million Nigerians through the Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers.
Among the distinguished honourees were Nunaya Polycarp Nunaya from Adamawa State, Akase Pati Ence Nguwasen from Benue State, and Igwe Anne Chikaodi from Enugu State, whose contributions ranged from community development projects to educational outreach in remote areas.
President Tinubu urged all Nigerian youths to remain steadfast in their commitment to national development, resisting divisive influences. The ceremony, attended by top government officials and NYSC management, was a vibrant celebration of youth excellence and a call to action for future corps members to continue building a stronger Nigeria.
The event has sparked widespread praise across the country, with many commending President Tinubu’s focus on rewarding merit and supporting young Nigerians in shaping the nation’s future.
