19/08/2026
ADD VALUE TO YOURSELF, DG NYSC CHARGES CORPS MEMBERS
The Director General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General OO Nafiu, has charged Corps Members to add value to themselves by acquiring relevant skills, embracing national integration, and upholding the ideals of the Scheme throughout their service year.
The Director General gave the charge during his visit to the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Kussala Dam, Karaye Local Government Area of Kano State, where he addressed Corps Members undergoing the orientation course.
Speaking on the objectives of the NYSC Scheme, Brigadier General Nafiu reminded the Corps Members that national unity and integration remain the foundational purposes of the Scheme. He urged them to step out of their comfort zones, interact freely with fellow Corps Members from different ethnic, cultural, and geopolitical backgrounds, and build meaningful relationships that could last beyond the service year.
On Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED), the DG encouraged Corps Members to take the programme seriously, noting that the current economic realities require young people to develop practical and entrepreneurial skills. He stressed that white-collar employment opportunities are increasingly limited and urged them to acquire skills that would enable them to become self-reliant, create employment opportunities, and contribute meaningfully to the economy after their service year.
He further encouraged the Corps Members to make good use of the service year, remain content, disciplined and focused, and consciously add value to their lives, stressing that the decisions and experiences gained during the period could significantly influence their future.
The Director General also cautioned Corps Members on the responsible use of social media. He advised them to avoid spreading fake news, hate speech, or sharing unverified and unauthorized information about camp activities. Rather, he encouraged them to use digital platforms for personal development, networking, learning, and projecting a positive image of Nigeria.
On political activities, Brigadier General Nafiu strictly advised Corps Members to desist from partisan politics and political arguments during their service year. He reminded them that, as Corps Members, they are non-partisan representatives of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and must therefore protect the credibility, neutrality, and integrity of the NYSC Scheme.
The DG urged the Corps Members to internalize the words of the NYSC Anthem, describing it as a moral compass that reminds them of their duties, loyalty, selflessness, patriotism, and commitment to serving the nation under all circumstances.
He also emphasized the importance of health and personal hygiene, urging Corps Members to take their physical and mental wellbeing seriously. He advised them to make proper use of the camp clinic, maintain good personal hygiene, report health concerns promptly to medical personnel, and adhere strictly to prescribed health and safety protocols.
On unauthorized journeys, the Director General reiterated the NYSC management's zero-tolerance policy. He warned Corps Members against embarking on journeys without approval from the State Coordinator, stressing that unauthorized travel exposes them to unnecessary risks and constitutes a serious disciplinary offence under the NYSC Bye-Laws.
In a memorable demonstration of welfare-oriented leadership, the Director General personally celebrated the birthday of Corps Member Mohammed Shuaibu (KN/26B/2841). The celebration featured the ceremonial cutting of a birthday cake alongside camp officials, creating a cheerful and memorable atmosphere at the Multipurpose Hall.
The DG also recognized the dedication and exemplary leadership of selected Corps leaders during the orientation exercise. He presented cash gifts to them in appreciation of their efforts in maintaining discipline and order, coordinating peer activities, and demonstrating commitment to the ideals of the Scheme.
Concluding his address, Brigadier General Nafiu reassured the Corps Members of the NYSC Management's unwavering commitment to their security and welfare throughout their service year. He expressed confidence in their potential and urged them to make the most of the opportunities provided by the Scheme, wishing them a successful, productive, and impactful service year.