By Milcah Tanimu
The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Yushau Ahmed, has called on the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) to add skill acquisition and entrepreneurship programs to its curriculum. Ahmed made this recommendation during the NDA’s 22nd Convocation Lecture in Kaduna. The event honored the graduating cadets of the 71st Regular Course and postgraduate students.
The lecture, titled “NYSC and Skills Acquisition for Youth Development in Nigeria: A Panacea to National Security,” highlighted the need for practical skills beyond military training. Ahmed suggested using the academy’s large land area for agricultural production. This would provide cadets with hands-on agricultural experience and promote sustainable land use.
“The NYSC is ready to collaborate with the academy in this initiative,” Ahmed stated. He also proposed that the NDA’s Postgraduate School include skill acquisition programs. This, he explained, would enhance students’ employability and self-reliance.
According to Ahmed, engaging youth in meaningful activities is crucial for national security. “When individuals have skills and are employed, they are less likely to engage in negative activities,” he added.
The Commandant of the NDA, Major General John Ochai, praised Ahmed for the lecture. He stressed the importance of combining academic and skill-based training. He encouraged cadets to learn skills that align with their talents to contribute to the national economy and personal growth.
This initiative is a step towards youth empowerment, self-sufficiency, and national development.
