The incumbent Director General of the National Youth Service Corps, Brigadier General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, has paid a visit to the pioneer Chief Executive of the scheme, Colonel Ahmadu Ali (Rtd), at his Abuja residence, reaffirming the corps' gratitude for the foundation laid at its inception in 1973.

Nafiu disclosed that the visit was informed by the need to pay homage to Colonel Ali in acknowledgement of the solid foundation he laid at inception, which has continued to ensure the scheme's stability for 50 years. He commended Ali for his administrative savvy, dexterity, and wisdom in navigating the initial challenges of the NYSC, adding that the scheme remained indebted to him for his enduring leadership qualities.

Colonel Ali, who served as the then National Director of the NYSC, now renamed Director General, used the occasion to reflect on the scheme's journey and reaffirm its place in Nigeria's national life. He commended former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon for his visionary leadership, part of which was the establishment of the NYSC in 1973, describing it as an enduring programme with continued relevance.

Ali noted that initial scepticism among Nigerian graduates, which had led to protests against the scheme's establishment, had since been replaced by anticipation and excitement among young Nigerians.

On the scheme's impact, the pioneer chief executive was emphatic. "People have the privilege to go to other states which ordinarily they wouldn't have," he stated, adding that the NYSC provided young Nigerians with coping mechanisms acquired outside their comfort zones, thereby increasing their tolerance for one another.

He further applauded the managers of the scheme for sustaining the vision of its founding fathers and pledged to continually pray for its sustainability.

Colonel Ali maintained that through its programmes, services, and positive nationwide visibility spanning 50 years, the NYSC had continued to endear itself to Nigerians and advance the cause for its perpetual existence.