The House of Representatives is preparing to discuss a proposed bill aimed at establishing a dedicated funding source for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), focused on skill acquisition and empowerment of corps members. Known as “The NYSC Trust Fund (Establishment) Bill 2024,” the bill was introduced by the representative for Nasarawa/Toro Federal Constituency of Nasarawa State and read on the House floor two weeks ago.
The bill’s primary objective is to create a legal framework for managing a special intervention fund to support NYSC’s training and development programs for corps members. Section 2(1) of the bill stipulates that the Trust Fund will cover “all corps members, NYSC personnel, orientation camps, formations, facilities, and initiatives aimed at enhancing service delivery and program efficiency.”
The fund would draw from several sources, including 0.2% of revenue from the Consolidated Revenue Fund, federal government grants, and contributions from international organizations, private sector donations, and other financial sources. Additionally, revenue from investments by the Trust Fund would further supplement resources.
Outlined purposes of the fund include corps members’ skills training, procurement of instructional materials, enhancement of NYSC ventures, and establishing new facilities. Section 5(1) specifies that the fund should be used to enhance the proficiency and employment opportunities of corps members, support NYSC personnel development, and improve the operational facilities of the NYSC.
The bill also proposes a Board of Trustees to oversee the Trust Fund, comprising NYSC National Governing Board members, representatives from the Ministries of Youth Development and Finance, and key figures from the private sector. The board would be responsible for policy formulation, project financing, and fund disbursement. Section 13(1) empowers the board to award contracts and manage fund-related projects in accordance with applicable legal and regulatory standards.
If passed, this bill would mark a significant step toward enhancing the NYSC program’s long-term sustainability, with a focus on equipping corps members for meaningful careers.
