Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, the Director General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), has called on corps members to uphold the program’s enduring mission of fostering national unity and integration, while actively contributing to Nigeria’s socio-economic development.
Addressing the 2025 Batch “B” stream two orientation course participants through a nationwide virtual session, he emphasized the importance of their role in continuing the NYSC’s legacy.
In an official statement released by Caroline Embu, NYSC’s Director of Information and Public Relations, General Nafiu highlighted that the orientation course transcends a mere procedural formality. He described it as a comprehensive developmental journey aimed at nurturing discipline, collaboration, resilience, flexibility, and leadership qualities among the corps members.
“Every element of this program-from educational lectures and skill-building workshops to sports, social engagements, and even the Man ‘O War drills-is intentionally crafted to challenge and enhance your physical endurance, mental strength, and ethical character. This training prepares you not just for your service year, but for life beyond it,” he explained.
The DG identified three fundamental areas of focus for corps members during their camp experience: discipline, security, and opportunity.
Regarding discipline, he urged participants to adhere strictly to camp regulations, respect the authority of officials, wear their uniforms with pride, and refrain from unauthorized departures. He issued a stern warning against involvement in cultism, substance abuse, fraud, cybercrime, and violence, emphasizing that breaches of the NYSC Code of Conduct would be met with decisive disciplinary action.
On the matter of security, General Nafiu encouraged corps members to maintain close cooperation with camp management, exercise caution in sharing sensitive content on social media platforms, and stay alert to their surroundings.
Concerning opportunities, he motivated the corps members to take full advantage of the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) initiative, which equips participants with practical skills to become entrepreneurs and innovators.
“Numerous alumni have leveraged this program to launch successful enterprises, attract investment, and reshape their career paths. In today’s competitive market, creativity and skill mastery are invaluable assets-make the most of this opportunity,” he advised.
Furthermore, the DG encouraged corps members to build enduring friendships, embody the core values of the NYSC, and use social media responsibly.
“Chasing fleeting online fame is never worth jeopardizing your reputation or future prospects. Reject divisiveness. Serve with enthusiasm, dignity, and the firm belief that you are the generation destined to elevate this nation,” he concluded.
