The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, has urged Corps Members to use social media responsibly, warning them against partisan engagements as preparations begin toward the 2027 general elections.
He gave the charge while addressing 2026 Batch ‘A’ Stream II Corps Members deployed to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Nasarawa State during orientation camp activities held in Kubwa and Keffi respectively.
General Nafiu encouraged the Corps Members to leverage social media to promote the ideals of the National Youth Service Corps and strengthen national unity, stressing that their online conduct must reflect neutrality as stakeholders in national service.
He also informed them that they would be actively involved in the 2027 general elections in line with their civic responsibilities, while emphasizing the importance of remaining completely non-partisan in both action and digital engagement.
The NYSC helmsman further advised the Corps Members to build meaningful relationships during their service year, noting that friendships formed in camp often develop into lifelong professional and personal networks. He cited examples of Nigerians whose enduring connections were established during their service years.
According to him, the service year offers a unique opportunity for exposure to Nigeria’s diverse cultures and peoples, designed to foster unity and deeper national understanding.
General Nafiu expressed optimism that the spirit of camaraderie and togetherness experienced in platoon activities would be sustained beyond camp life, contributing to national cohesion and development.
He also reminded Corps Members that many of them once benefited from the service of Corps teachers and should now embrace the opportunity to serve others and give back to the country.
On capacity building, he urged them to take the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme seriously, noting that it could provide sustainable income or full-time employment after service.
He further encouraged financial discipline, advising Corps Members to save part of their monthly allowance despite the economic challenges they may face during the service year.
“The service year is a period of sacrifice and responsibility. Deploy your ideas, contribute to community development, and make meaningful impact wherever you are posted,” he said.
Earlier, the FCT Coordinator, Samson Ateli, disclosed that 6,225 Corps Members registered to serve in the FCT, while his Nasarawa State counterpart, Hajia Salamatu Muhammad, said the Keffi camp recorded 2,679 Corps Members, including 796 deployed to the FCT.
