By Nkechi Eze
The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, has assured Corps Members that their welfare, safety, and security remain a top priority, declaring that the scheme will not compromise on the wellbeing of participants under any circumstances.
According to an official signed statement by the Director, Information and Public Relations of NYSC, Caroline Embu, the DG gave the assurance while addressing the 2026 Batch “A” Stream II Corps Members deployed to Niger State, as well as those posted to the Federal Capital Territory but undergoing orientation at the NYSC camp in Paiko, Niger State.
General Nafiu disclosed that he was in Makurdi, Benue State, when he received reports of damage caused by late-night rainstorms at the Paiko orientation camp. He said he immediately mobilised his team and proceeded to the camp to personally assess the situation and initiate prompt remedial measures.
He acknowledged that while orientation camps are not designed for luxury, minimum acceptable standards must be maintained, assuring Corps Members that steps were already being taken in collaboration with the Niger State Government to repair and upgrade affected facilities. He emphasized that no Corps Member would be left stranded.
The DG also commended the discipline exhibited by Corps Members, noting the absence of social media posts or images showing the damaged structures, which he described as a demonstration of maturity and responsibility.
During the engagement, General Nafiu reiterated the core objectives of the NYSC scheme, highlighting its role in promoting national unity and integration among young Nigerians from diverse backgrounds. He encouraged Corps Members to build lasting relationships during their service year.
He further sensitized them on the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme, describing it as a critical component of the scheme designed to equip participants with practical skills for self-reliance and economic empowerment.
Looking ahead, the DG informed the Corps Members that they would form part of the ad-hoc workforce for the 2027 general elections, noting that the Independent National Electoral Commission would provide the necessary training in due course. He, however, cautioned them against engaging in partisan politics, thuggery, or any form of electoral misconduct, stressing that the NYSC remains a non-partisan institution.
General Nafiu also advised Corps Members to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures, particularly during the rainy season, which poses risks such as flooding and severe storms.
In her remarks, the NYSC Coordinator for Niger State, Mrs Martina Shuaibu Ibrahim, disclosed that a total of 2,484 Corps Members comprising 1,241 males and 1,243 females were registered for the orientation exercise, including those redeployed from the Federal Capital Territory.
The visit underscores the commitment of the NYSC leadership to maintaining standards, ensuring safety, and sustaining the integrity of the scheme amid operational challenges.
