BUHARI IS REQUESTED TO APPROVE THE NYSC TRUST FUND LEGISLATION

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Trust Fund Bill, passed by the National Assembly, was urged by THE Centre for Social Justice, Equity and Transparency (CESJET) on Sunday to be signed into law by President Muhammadu Buhari in order to enhance the general welfare of corps members and scheme personnel.

Mr. Isaac Ikpa, the executive secretary of CESJET, made the announcement during a press conference in Abuja. He said that by providing start-up cash to corps members after their service year, the bill’s passage would foster the economic prosperity of youths in the nation.

The Fund would be funded by a levy of 1% of the net profit of businesses and the organized private sector operating in Nigeria; 0.2% of all revenue accruing to the federation account; and any takeoff grant and special intervention fund as may be provided by the federal, state, and local governments of the Federation. The bill is currently awaiting presidential assent.

Speaking, Ikpa said: “Corps members are taught a range of skills throughout the NYSC that would enable them to become independent entrepreneurs, creating jobs while also addressing environmental issues. Lack of funding for a start-up dream is a serious issue that the Trust Fund would address. This has been a setback for many members of the youth corps.

“Mr. President is recommended to make that ambition come true by providing the finances these corps members require once they complete their duty so they can launch a business to benefit both themselves and the country as a whole. This would, without a doubt, be the best present President Muhammadu Buhari could send to the young people of this country. There is no doubt that it will expand our country’s economy in a variety of ways.

“CESJET therefore asks President Muhammadu Buhari to sign the measure that concerns the NYSC Trust Fund. Mr. President, approval of the NYSC Trust Fund bill signifies a safe future for our children. It would be a clear strategy and an antidote to the spread of youth restlessness and criminal activity. It will live on as a legacy that future generations will remember as the transformation that reorganized and repositioned our kids for greatness.