By| Goodluck E.Adubazi | Abuja
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 across Nigeria.
Paullier made the remarks during the flag-off ceremony of the NYSC’s Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers (HIRD) held in Kabusa community, within Abuja.
Speaking during his official visit, the UN official noted that his trip focused on engaging with youth organizations, particularly the NYSC, alongside key 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,” Paullier said, while commending the scheme’s sustained provision of free healthcare services to underserved rural communities. He added that such interventions contribute meaningfully to building a better society.
Earlier, the Director-General of NYSC, Olakunle Nafiu, disclosed that since the inception of HIRD in 2014, over five million Nigerians have benefited from the initiative. He revealed that the scheme aims to reach an additional 45,000 rural residents this year.
Nafiu highlighted that the programme’s expansion is being supported by two newly acquired mobile clinics donated by Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, describing the gesture as both visionary and impactful.
He further announced plans to introduce free minor surgical procedures under the HIRD programme, noting that the initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and Goal 1 (No Poverty).
“The programme reduces the financial burden on vulnerable households and promotes healthier lifestyles,” Nafiu stated, while also appreciating partners, donors, and corps medical personnel for their dedication.
In his remarks, the Dakachi of Kabusa, Samuel A. Kpowu, expressed gratitude to the NYSC, describing the outreach as the first of its kind in the community.
Also speaking, Mrs. Funmilayo Ajayi, Acting Director of Community Development Service and Special Projects, outlined the services offered during the two-day outreach. These included health education, medical consultations, laboratory tests, eye care, and referrals.
A major highlight of the event was the unveiling and inspection of the two mobile clinics by the UN delegation led by Paullier alongside the NYSC leadership.
The event also featured a health talk delivered by Corps Medical Doctor, Else Ibrahim, who translated key messages into the local Gbagyi language to ensure community understanding.
The outreach programme received support from partners including Genlab/Doc.roa, led by Ebozoje Deogratias Segun, and the Rabiu Olowo Foundation, represented by Ayomide Adebayo.
Reported by Caroline Embu, Director of Information and Public Relations.
