Writing By Aminu Dalhatu; Editing By Yusuf Zubairu
The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps, Olakunle O. Nafiu, has cautioned corps members against the misuse of social media and other privileges, urging them to conduct themselves responsibly throughout their service year.
Nafiu gave the warning during an interactive session with corps members at the temporary orientation camp in Gusau, where he stressed the importance of discipline, respect, and adherence to Nigerian laws.
The NYSC Director-General warned corps members against cyberbullying, harassment, and defamatory posts on social media, noting that some offenders had previously been arrested and prosecuted for offensive online comments.
He also urged corps members to respect the culture, traditions, and privacy of their host communities, warning against taking or sharing inappropriate photographs and content without consent.
Nafiu encouraged participants to use social media positively by promoting Nigeria’s cultural diversity, sharing their service experiences, and showcasing skills, sports, and cultural activities that reflect the spirit of national unity.
The DG informed corps members that many of them could participate in future electoral activities as ad hoc staff, explaining that interested participants would be allowed to register and would be entitled to allowances and insurance coverage during elections.
He further emphasized the importance of the three-week orientation exercise in promoting unity, cultural understanding, and national integration among Nigerian youths drawn from different parts of the country.
Nafiu urged corps members, especially those posted to schools, to see their deployment as an opportunity to impact knowledge and contribute to shaping future generations.
The Director-General also encouraged participants to build meaningful relationships at the camp by interacting with people from different ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
He disclosed that his nationwide tour of all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory had helped the scheme improve operational efficiency and respond more effectively to challenges affecting corps members across the country.
In his remarks, the Zamfara State Coordinator of NYSC, Mohammed Lawan, said 512 corps members, comprising 302 males and 210 females, were currently participating in the orientation programme.
Lawan noted that the corps members had remained disciplined and compliant with camp regulations, adding that the state government had approved the establishment of a permanent orientation camp in Gusau, alongside renovation works at the temporary camp.
He also stated that despite security challenges in some parts of the state, no corps member had been involved in any security incident due to sustained sensitization and collaboration with relevant stakeholders.
Speaking on behalf of the corps members, Famela Ayuba, appreciated the Director-General for visiting the camp, describing the interaction as a morale booster that inspired participants to remain committed to the ideals of the NYSC scheme.
