NYSC, INEC strengthen collaboration ahead 2026, 2027 elections

The Director of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, South West Area Office 1, Olubukola Oluwaremilekun Abiodun, has said that ongoing engagements between the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, and the NYSC are aimed at strengthening coordination ahead of upcoming elections.

Speaking during a visit to the INEC state office in Osogbo on Tuesday, Abiodun said the synergy between the two agencies had been effective over the years.

She expressed appreciation to INEC for what she described as a productive working relationship, particularly during previous electoral cycles.

She stated that both bodies were already planning collaborative efforts for the 2026 Osun governorship election and the 2027 general elections.

According to her, the visit formed part of wider advocacy aimed at ensuring improved security for corps members deployed for electoral duties.

Abiodun said corps members remained the most suitable individuals for deployment as INEC ad-hoc staff.

“All they need is communication and adequate enlightenment. The NYSC consistently sensitised members on their roles. We make sure to enlighten them on the importance of keeping the ballot box and papers secured,” she said.

She also emphasised the need for strict adherence to welfare provisions.

“Their welfare and security according to the MOU signed should be done without any stress to the corps members,” she noted.

Abiodun stressed the importance of timely communication and information sharing between both agencies. She said any relevant updates should be forwarded to the NYSC to enable prompt action.

She further advocated for an increase in corps members’ allowances during election periods.

Responding, the Osun Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC, for INEC, Dr Mutiu Agboke, agreed on the need to ensure adequate welfare for corps members.

He said INEC recognised the importance of their contributions during elections.

“We will try and do the needful and ensure that their allowance is being paid,” he stated.

Agboke acknowledged that some corps members were not always dutiful on election days but said the situation could be effectively managed.

“Whatever areas we need further intervention, we will continue to work together,” he said.

He added that the welfare of corps members remained a priority. “As it is now, the issue of welfare is still as it stands,” he remarked.

Agboke highlighted the importance of reverse logistics in election management, explaining that INEC had developed modalities for improved post-election movements.

He said arrangements were being made to ensure corps members were safely transported back to their bases after duties.

“My plan is to ensure that we track all vehicles carrying materials and personnel. The commercial vehicle drivers are our problems,” he added.