The National Youth Service Corps has commenced a strategic media training programme for its top management and State Coordinators to strengthen communication and public engagement across the country.

The workshop, themed "Strengthening NYSC Operations through Strategic Media Engagement: Contemporary Digital and Traditional Media Approaches," was designed to equip NYSC leaders with practical skills in public relations, crisis management, content creation, media monitoring, and reputation management.

Declaring his administration's resolve to improve the Scheme's public profile, Director General Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu reaffirmed the NYSC's commitment to intensifying publicity efforts aimed at showcasing its milestones and achievements to stakeholders. He described the Scheme as one of the most enduring legacies of Nigeria's nation building efforts.

Nafiu noted that many stakeholders, including prospective Corps Members, parents, and the general public, do not fully understand the Scheme's rules, policies, processes, or the impact of its programmes.

"We live in an age where information spreads instantly. A single social media post can enhance or damage an institution's reputation within minutes. We must remain vigilant," he stated.

The Director General charged the State Coordinators, who he described as the faces of the NYSC in their respective states, to build strong media teams and diligently monitor information relating to Corps Members and Scheme activities.

"Apply the knowledge and skills you would gain from this training to drive measurable improvements in projecting NYSC activities and achievements across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory," he added.

He also referenced the recent commemoration of the NYSC's 53rd anniversary as an opportunity that further demonstrated the Scheme's contributions to national development.

In her welcome address, the Director of Information and Public Relations, Caroline Embu, disclosed that the NYSC operates in an era of rapid digital media evolution, characterised by misinformation, disinformation, sensational reporting, and misuse of social media platforms.

Embu stressed that these challenges are amplified by the digitally active generation of young Nigerians currently being mobilised for national service.

"As managers and custodians of the NYSC brand, we must be proactive in communicating our successes, addressing emerging issues, and projecting a positive image of the Scheme," she urged.

She emphasised that effective communication and strategic information management are critical to sustaining public trust and enhancing awareness of the Scheme's achievements.

"We cannot afford to diminish our publicity efforts; rather, we must intensify them by leveraging both traditional and emerging media platforms," Embu added.