By Nkechi Eze
In a renewed call for patriotism and commitment to national service, the Director General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Olakunle Akinyemi Nafiu, has issued a stern warning to Corps Members, cautioning them against abandoning their national service in pursuit of foreign travel.
The warning came during his working visit to three orientation camps, Osun State Orientation Camp in Ede, Oyo State Orientation Camp in Iseyin, and Ogun State Orientation Camp in Sagamu, where he addressed Corps Members of the 2025 Batch ‘A’ Stream Two. His remarks were aimed at reinforcing the essence of the Scheme and reminding the Corps Members of their responsibilities to the nation.
According to a statement issued by the Acting Director of Information and Public Relations of the Scheme, Caroline Embu, the NYSC Director General emphasized that evasion of service or abscondment constitutes a serious violation of the NYSC Act and would attract severe penalties. He urged those who may have aspirations to travel abroad to do so only after they have completed their one-year mandatory service and obtained their Certificates of National Service.
“National service is a sacred duty and a platform to contribute meaningfully to the development of our great country. You must not abandon it for foreign adventures. Serve your fatherland with pride, and when it is time, you may travel with honour, knowing you have fulfilled your civic responsibility,” General Nafiu said.
He also enjoined the Corps Members to be mindful of their personal security throughout their service year. He warned against engaging in reckless behavior or embarking on unnecessary journeys that could endanger their lives. “Security is a collective responsibility, and you must not take it for granted. Be alert, stay informed, and make wise decisions,” he cautioned.
Additionally, the Director General reiterated the importance of discipline and decorum, stressing that improper dressing would not be tolerated within the Scheme. He reminded the Corps Members to adhere strictly to the NYSC dress code, which he said is an integral part of the organization’s identity and standards.
“Dress responsibly, make good friends during your service year, and invest your time positively. The choices you make now will shape your future,” he advised.
During his tour of the camps, the Director General received briefings from the respective NYSC State Coordinators, who provided updates on the ongoing orientation programmes and the performance of Corps Members and camp officials.
In Osun State, the NYSC Coordinator, Mr. Agbor Ndoma Obim, informed the DG that the state registered a total of 1,390 Corps Members, consisting of 612 males and 778 females. In addition, the state camp also received 1,643 Corps Members 722 males and 921 females, who were dislodged from Lagos due to space constraints. Mr. Obim commended the high level of synergy among camp officials and participants, which he said had contributed significantly to the successful execution of the Orientation Exercise.
Similarly, the NYSC Oyo State Coordinator, Mr. Kayode Ola-Peters, reported that the state had registered a total of 3,502 Corps Members, comprising 1,380 males and 2,122 females. He described the Corps Members as enthusiastic and fully committed to contributing their quota to the development of the state.
In Ogun State, the State Coordinator, Mrs. Olayinka Nasamu, disclosed that 2,602 Corps Members, 1,148 males and 1,454 females had been duly registered and had adapted quickly to the regimented camp life. She praised the conduct of the Corps Members, noting that they had shown great discipline and readiness to learn. “All the Camp officials are diligently performing their duties with a high level of synergy, ensuring a seamless Orientation Exercise,” she added.
The visits by the Director General were part of the NYSC’s ongoing efforts to ensure quality assurance, welfare, and security in all orientation camps across the country. They also serve as an avenue to inspire Corps Members, boost their morale, and re-emphasize the values of discipline, patriotism, and national service.
With Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape continuing to evolve, the NYSC remains a vital institution in fostering national unity, social integration, and youth development. The DG’s visit and his charge to the Corps Members further reinforce the Scheme’s enduring relevance and the need for every young Nigerian graduate to honour and uphold the principles it represents.
