The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has ceased posting corps members to states deemed unsafe due to escalating security challenges across the nation, announced Minister of Youth, Jamila Ibrahim, during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics.
Concerns arose following the abduction of several corps members in various parts of the country during their mandatory one-year national service, prompting the scheme to reassess its operational strategies.
Ibrahim emphasized that the NYSC has prioritized the safety of its members by refraining from posting them to high-risk states. She stated, “We have ceased posting corps members to the very unsafe states as an immediate intervention of the government and the NYSC as an agency. This has been our practice to ensure their safety.”
Highlighting the collaborative effort required for member security, Ibrahim underscored the involvement of multiple government agencies in addressing security concerns. She emphasized, “Security matters require a multi-sectoral approach. The NYSC and the ministry are collaborating with security agencies to safeguard corps members.”
Furthermore, the minister outlined transportation strategies geared towards ensuring the safe movement of corps members to and from camps and their designated locations.
Addressing broader reforms within the NYSC scheme, Ibrahim discussed plans to overhaul the program to align with current national realities, including adjustments to corps members’ allowances.
She explained, “We are examining comprehensive funding for the NYSC. Our reform agenda aims to elevate the scheme beyond being solely a government social program. The reforms will position the NYSC as a revenue-generating agency and equip corps members for the job market.”
