DESPITE resistance during its foundation, the National Youth Service Corps has remained one of the blessings that has happened to Nigeria, a former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (retd.), has said.

Gowon, who is the founding father of the NYSC, also called on the Federal Government to strengthen and ensure adequate funding of the scheme.

The elder statesman stated these virtually during the public presentation of nine books written by the NYSC and a film, ‘Call to Service’, to commemorate its 48 years existence and contributions to the development and unity of Nigeria.

The books were unveiled by Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule; Director-General of the NYSC, Brig. Gen. Shuaibu Ibrahim, and other dignitaries.

During the event, a member of the House of Representatives and Chairman, House Committee on Youths Development, Yemi Adaramodu, said the National Assembly had no plan to scrap the NYSC.

According to him, the NYSC has come to stay in view of its contribution to national integration and nation-building.

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Gowon said, “It is gratifying and heartwarming that the NYSC scheme, which was established in 1973, despite the resistance that greeted it by some sections of the populace at the time, has now grown and matured to become a national household name and organisation.

“There is no doubt that the NYSC has contributed more than any organisation to nation building. In view of what has been said about the NYSC scheme, greater efforts should be made by the government to strengthen it by ensuring greater funding of the scheme.”