The Director-General, National Youth Service Corps, Olakunle Nafiu, has urged managers overseeing the Scheme’s farms and business ventures to embrace innovation and adopt global best practices to improve profitability and sustainability.
Speaking at the opening of the 2026 Farm/Ventures Managers’ Workshop in Abuja, Brigadier General Nafiu said the ventures play a crucial role in empowering Corps Members, staff and host communities.
The workshop, themed “Promoting Viable Partnerships For Profitable NYSC Ventures,” aims to strengthen operational capacity and foster partnerships that can enhance returns from the Scheme’s investments.
Represented by the Director of Corps Mobilisation, Rachel Idaewor, the Director-General said the organisation was focused on building businesses that contribute to economic growth.
“The NYSC is building businesses that will drive economic growth and empowerment of our Corps Members,” he said.
“Therefore, the importance of commitment by all members of staff in charge of the Scheme’s ventures cannot be over-emphasised.”
He also warned against acts of sabotage and mismanagement, stressing the need for transparency and dedication in managing the ventures.
The NYSC DG added that the workshop would enhance the managers’ skills and help identify new partnerships to improve profit margins.
He commended managers who had demonstrated strong performance and encouraged them to sustain their efforts.
In his welcome address, Acting Director of the Ventures Management Department, Abe Dankaro, said the department had recorded major progress through increased productivity and expanded partnerships.
Mr Dankaro highlighted key achievements, including the installation of a solar-powered borehole and the establishment of a modern fish farm at the NYSC farm in Kwali, as well as the launch of beef fattening operations at the orientation camp in Keffi, Nasarawa State.
He added that the department was collaborating with reputable organisations to strengthen Corps Members’ training while improving farm and factory operations.
The NYSC says its ventures are designed to equip young Nigerians with practical skills, promote entrepreneurship and support local economic development.
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