The Director of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), South West Area Office 1, Olubukola Oluwaremilekun Abiodun, has said ongoing engagements between the NYSC and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) are aimed at strengthening coordination ahead of forthcoming elections.
Abiodun stated this on Tuesday during a visit to the INEC state office in Osogbo, noting that the partnership between both agencies had remained effective over the years. She commended INEC for what she described as a fruitful working relationship, especially during previous electoral cycles.
She disclosed that preparations were already underway for joint efforts towards the 2026 Osun governorship election and the 2027 general elections.
According to her, the visit was part of broader advocacy efforts to enhance security arrangements for corps members deployed for election duties. She emphasised that corps members remain the most suitable candidates for use as INEC ad-hoc staff.
“All they need is communication and adequate enlightenment. The NYSC consistently sensitises members on their roles, including the importance of securing ballot boxes and papers,” she said.
Abiodun also stressed strict adherence to welfare provisions contained in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between both agencies, urging for seamless implementation.
“Their welfare and security, according to the MoU signed, should be handled without stress to the corps members,” she added.
She called for timely sharing of relevant information with the NYSC to ensure prompt action and advocated an upward review of corps members’ allowances during election periods.
Responding, the Osun Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Dr. Mutiu Agboke, agreed on the need to prioritise corps members’ welfare. He acknowledged their critical contributions to the electoral process.
“We will try and do the needful and ensure their allowances are paid,” he said.
Agboke noted that although some corps members were not always diligent on election days, the situation could be effectively managed. He reiterated INEC’s commitment to addressing challenges and strengthening collaboration where necessary.
He highlighted the importance of reverse logistics in election management, explaining that modalities were being put in place to ensure safe post-election movement for corps members.
“My plan is to ensure we track all vehicles carrying materials and personnel. Commercial vehicle drivers are our major challenge,” he added.