By ZAKAA LAZARUS
The General Manager of Olam Nigeria Limited, Mrs. Morenike Alayerogun, has sought the support of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to strengthen aquaculture development and promote youth empowerment in the country.
Alayerogun made the request when she led a delegation of the company on a courtesy visit to the NYSC National Directorate Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja.
According to a statement by the Director, Information and Public Relations, Caroline Embu, Alayerogun disclosed that about 200 Corps Members are currently serving with the organisation in various fields.
She said Olam is committed to supporting the Federal Government’s efforts in nation-building, youth development and mentorship of Corps Members.
She said as part of its expansion drive, Olam has completed the biggest Research and Development Institute for aquaculture in Ilorin, Kwara State, and is currently constructing another factory in Asaba, Delta State.
She further disclosed that the company has established extensive partnerships with universities across the country to strengthen aquaculture development.
According to her, the company plans to bring specialists from universities to Ilorin for a one-year training programme, after which they would be attached to farmers across the country.
She said equipping farmers with adequate theoretical and practical knowledge would enhance productivity and sustainability of their aquaculture businesses.
She therefore requested deployment of more Corps Members to strengthen Olam’s farm operations, particularly in Kwara State.
“We will accommodate and feed them, and after one year, we will attach them to our farmers all over the nation,” she said.
She also proposed a partnership with NYSC to train more Corps Members who could subsequently be supported by the Bank of Industry (BoI) to establish their own businesses, adding that Olam is ready to support the Federal Government’s agenda of growing the economy to a one-trillion-dollar economy.
In his remarks, NYSC Director General, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, said unemployment is a global challenge affecting young people.
He noted that agribusiness remains a major component of the Nigerian economy, underscoring the relevance of Olam’s agricultural activities.
General Nafiu commended Olam for its contributions to the Nigerian economy and efforts to empower Corps Members.
He said NYSC Management frowns at misuse and underutilisation of Corps Members and urged Corps employers to continue to add value to Corps Members deployed to their organisations.
“We want to thank you for the value addition to our Corps Members,” the DG stated.
He disclosed that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) would be required to define responsibilities of both parties, stressing that the Scheme considers security and welfare of Corps Members a top priority.
