I’d rather die than lose a corps member, says new NYSC DG

Shuaibu Ibrahim, director-general (DG) of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), says he “prefers to die than to lose a member of the scheme. “

Ibrahim spoke on Wednesday during a visit to the staff and corps members at the NYSC zonal office in Akure, Ondo state.

The DG told the corps members to keep themselves abreast of current happenings in their environment and be security conscious.

He also urged the corps members to take the opportunity of the entrepreneurial programmes put in place by the scheme and engage in things worth being remembered for.

Ibrahim, who described the corps members as his children, said he is “very passionate about the scheme and my corps members.”

“I will prefer to die than losing a corps member. Keep yourself abreast of what is happening in your country, and make a difference as a corps member,” Ibrahim said.

“I want to rejig our skills acquisition programme. If you take it seriously, we have partners that are ready to lend you money. I am very passionate about the scheme and my corps members.

“I came for a youth programme, so I decided to visit you my ‘children’. What will you be remembered for when you leave this place? Try as much as possible to keep your records clean.”

Ibrahim’s announcement as the new NYSC DG by the army had sparked controversy, with many arguing that only the president reserves the power to make such appointment.

The army,subsequently, said that President Muhammadu Buhari approved the appointment.