The Abia government has frowned upon the allegation that some employers are exploiting the high unemployment rate to treat National Youth Service Corps members in the state as cheap labour.

The Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Nwaobilor Ananaba, stated this at the opening of this year’s NYSC/Corps Employers Stakeholders Workshop held on Thursday in Umuahia.

Mr Ananaba, who is also the chairman of the NYSC State Governing Board, urged employers to treat corps members with dignity and respect, “recognising them as their own children or siblings”.

He said, “It is disheartening that some employers, who were once treated with dignity and respect during their own national service, now subject corps members to ridicule, rejection, and incredible conditions. 

“The state government is committed to improving the living standards of corps members posted to the state, knowing that their well-being directly impacts their productivity.”

In a keynote speech, NYSC director-general Olakunle Nafiu said that the workshop was always an occasion to engage employers in strategic communication, harmonisation of views, and an opportunity to explain policy directions.

Mr Nafiu urged corps employers to commit themselves to the welfare of corps members, including transportation, a healthy work environment, and other essential aspects.

“I, therefore, enjoin you to see this workshop and your participation in it as a patriotic duty. I call on you to make individual and collective contributions in shaping the nation-building efforts of the corps members,” he said.

NYSC coordinator in Abia, Gladys Adama, stated that the workshop aimed to equip stakeholders and corps employers with the knowledge to enhance the well-being of corps members, thereby achieving optimal productivity.

Ms Adama appreciated the State Government for providing the enabling environment for corps members to operate and thrive in the state.

The workshop featured the presentation of two papers, with three groups tasked with analysing and proposing resolutions that would be beneficial to all parties in the partnership.

(NAN)