NYSC, Online Editors Seal Stronger Alliance to Boost National Unity

By Queen Kunde

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and the Association of Corporate Online Editors (ACOE) have moved to strengthen their partnership in promoting national unity, youth development and responsible journalism.

This followed a courtesy visit by the leadership of ACOE to the NYSC National Directorate Headquarters in Abuja, where both organisations pledged deeper cooperation in media engagement and public communication.

Speaking on behalf of the NYSC Director-General, Brigadier General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, the Director of Media, Mr Emeka Rems Mgbemena, said the Corps remains committed to working closely with the media to ensure accurate reporting of its activities. He noted that communication is central to the NYSC’s mission and highlighted the scheme’s TV station, radio arm and regular publications as key tools for informing the public.

Mgbemena described the NYSC as a “strategic national asset” created after the civil war to foster unity and cultural understanding, adding that the scheme has grown into a major engine for youth empowerment and entrepreneurship. He urged journalists to promote narratives that unite the country rather than divide it.

“The media is our partner in nation-building,” he said. “We welcome constructive criticism and honest feedback because they help us grow.”

Also speaking, the NYSC Director of Information and Public Relations, Mrs Caroline Embu, appealed for accurate and verified reporting, warning that misinformation erodes public trust. She assured that the Corps would continue to operate an open-door policy for media organisations.

Earlier, ACOE Chairman Comrade Sola Akingboye praised the NYSC for its role in fostering unity, discipline and national integration. He commended DG Brig. Gen. Nafiu’s commitment to transparency and youth welfare since assuming office in March.

Akingboye said the association is eager to deepen collaboration, especially in shaping digital narratives that support nation-building. “We are confident that this partnership will grow stronger and benefit the country,” he added.

The meeting ended with assurances of continued cooperation between both bodies. Senior NYSC officials and ACOE executives, including members of the association’s investiture planning committee, were present.

The renewed partnership is expected to amplify the NYSC’s work and strengthen the media’s role in promoting unity across Nigeria.