Mrs. Okpalifo Charity, the Bayelsa State coordinator for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), has issued a stern caution to nysc-biometrics-backlash-ushie-rita-uguamaye/” title=”Biometrics or Backlash? Inside …'s Silent Stand Against Ushie Rita Uguamaye”>corps members against engaging in the trafficking or consumption of illegal drugs. She emphasized that wearing the NYSC uniform does not exempt anyone from legal consequences.
Addressing participants of the 2025 Batch B, Stream 2 during an anti-drug rally held at the permanent Orientation Camp in Kaiama, Koloama/Opokuma LGA, Okpalifo urged all corps members to completely avoid drug abuse and any activities related to narcotics.
Speaking through the camp director, Sir Anumaka Raymond Kennedy, she underscored the severe impact of drug misuse, reminding the young graduates that such behavior could jeopardize their future roles as leaders and diminish their capacity to serve the nation effectively.
“As representatives of both the NYSC and your families, you must understand that drug abuse is not only unlawful but also detrimental to your personal growth and your ability to make positive contributions to society,” she stated.
“Our goal is for you to leave this orientation camp equipped not just with practical skills and discipline, but with a firm awareness that the decisions you make now will shape your destiny,” Okpalifo added.
She expressed concern over the increasing number of young people suffering from drug-induced mental health issues and roaming the streets, cautioning that corps members are equally vulnerable to arrest by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) if found involved in drug offenses.
“The NYSC uniform does not provide legal protection. Anyone caught either using or distributing illegal drugs will face the full weight of the law. We will not tolerate any behavior that damages the reputation of this esteemed program,” she warned.
Prior to her remarks, NDLEA’s head, Donald Enyiekere, commended the NYSC management for prioritizing the anti-drug campaign, expressing optimism that the collaboration between the NYSC and NDLEA will significantly advance Nigeria’s fight against drug abuse.
