From Reform Project to National Impact: Abraham Oludolapo’s Mission to Protect Nigeria’s Youth

For Abraham Oludolapo, what began as a reform project during the AIG Public Leaders Programme (AIG PLP) evolved into a mission to protect hundreds of thousands of young Nigerians. His initial idea centred on a technology-focused initiative, but a casual conversation with members of the programme cohort changed everything. They spoke about workplace safety for women, particularly for corps members facing harassment in public sector organisations. The discussion struck a personal chord, igniting a cause far greater than he had initially envisioned. 

 As Assistant Director at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and class governor of AIG PLP Cohort 3, Abraham was no stranger to public sector excellence. However, the AIG Public Leaders Programme and the reform project which is a key component of the programme curriculum, became his platform to drive sustainable change in his place of work and positively impact the experiences of many young people. 

A Shift in Focus 

Every year, NYSC deploys over 400,000 fresh university graduates to different states across Nigeria, where they serve as teachers, healthcare workers, and administrative staff in various locations. What his cohort members didn’t realise during their discussion was that their words would spark a transformation in how NYSC protects its corps members.Back at work, Abraham discovered there were no policies protecting corps members from workplace harassment. “There was nothing in place to protect these young Nigerians being placed in our care,” he says. This gap demanded action. 

Understanding the Scale of the Problem 

Determined to understand the true scale of the issue, Abraham reached out to NYSC field workers across different states and enlisted his cohort members to gather data. The results confirmed his concerns—workplace harassment was widespread and not just limited to corps members. NYSC staff members also needed protection. What started as a singular focus on corps members expanded into a comprehensive safety initiative for the entire organisation. 

The comprehensive policy he developed established clear reporting channels, mandatory safety training for host organisations, and specific protections for both corps members and staff. It introduced a structured process for addressing complaints, from informal mediation to formal investigations, with strict timelines to ensure swift action. Most importantly, it created a "zero tolerance" stance on sexual harassment, backed by clear disciplinary measures for offenders. 

The policy's impact has been far-reaching. Today, every orientation camp conducts mandatory sensitisation sessions, making the policy an integral part of NYSC culture. Corps members now have direct access to emergency contact numbers for reporting harassment, creating a safety net that spans all states. 

Overcoming Resistance 

Abraham knew resistance was inevitable. Some feared the policy would expose past incidents or cause backlash. But he tackled these concerns head-on, shifting the narrative from blame to protection. “This is for our organisation,” he emphasised in every conversation. “We must be at the forefront of handling something as serious as this.” 

His persistence paid off. The policy gained support from both colleagues and NYSC’s top management. Organisations hosting corps members became more accountable, while staff gained greater security and confidence knowing that clear safety protocols were in place. 

Lessons in Leadership and Public Service 

Reflecting on the journey, Abraham believes his biggest lesson was the power of determination in public service. “If you are seeking personal recognition, don’t start a project like this. What matters is how your work helps the average Nigerian who feels unheard,” he shares. 

The experience has reshaped his leadership philosophy. He now advocates for greater collaboration and a focus on excellence rather than individual accolades. “It’s not about you,” he stresses. “It’s about making Nigeria better.” 

The Broader Impact of the AIG PLP 

Abraham’s story is one of many transformations across the public sector, sparked by the AIG Public Leaders Programme. The programme equips public servants with practical skills to drive meaningful change, and each participant must develop a reform project to tackle a real challenge in their organisation. 

Across Nigeria, these projects are delivering impactful reforms: 

• An alumnus of the programme developed a standardised on-the-job training manual for Air Traffic Safety Electronics Personnel at NAMA, earning a management commendation for its comprehensive 125-page guide ensuring proper knowledge transfer and competency development. 

• At NAFDAC, another programme alumnus automated the dossier review process, solving a long-standing challenge in managing complex scientific documents that had previously slowed down regulatory decisions and frustrated applicants. 

• Another programme graduate spearheaded a groundbreaking security initiative at a high-value government building in Abuja's Three Arms Zone. His project introduced real-time intrusion detection software that provides security teams with precise location data and visual confirmation of potential threats, dramatically reducing human error in surveillance operations. 

• A programme alumnus serving as a medical officer revolutionised patient care at Isheri-Olofin Primary Healthcare Centre in Lagos. Her reform project slashed patient waiting times from 82 minutes to just 31 minutes – surpassing the ambitious 50% reduction target and transforming the experience for the facility's 1,500 monthly outpatients. 

Each programme participant identifies a critical challenge in their organisation and develops practical solutions through reform projects that can be implemented immediately. These projects prove that with the right tools, leadership, and determination, public servants can drive tangible change that improves citizens’ lives. 

A Legacy of Change 

Today, what started as a casual discussion among peers has evolved into a comprehensive policy, protecting thousands of young Nigerians serving their nation. Abraham’s journey is a testament to how one person’s commitment can transform an entire system, making Nigeria’s public service safer and more equitable for all. 

As Cohort 4 of the AIG Public Leaders Programme reaches its final milestone, stories like Abraham’s reinforce the programme’s impact. Each cohort brings fresh perspectives and bold solutions to long-standing governance challenges, proving that meaningful change often starts with a single idea—or even just a conversation. 

 With applications now open for Cohort 5, the programme is seeking passionate public sector leaders ready to drive reform. 

To read about Abraham’s policy, click here. 
To learn more about the AIG Public Leaders Programme, click here. 

Author: Nnamdi Omesiete