NYSC Warns Corps Members Against Partisan Politics, Social Media Misuse

The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, has cautioned corps members against participating in political campaigns, rallies and other partisan activities, reiterating that the scheme remains strictly apolitical.

Nafiu gave the warning while addressing members of the 2026 Batch ‘B’ Stream I at the NYSC Lagos State Orientation Camp in Iyana-Ipaja.

He reminded the corps members that the NYSC was established as a national institution for unity and integration and should not be associated with any political party or interest group.

“Do not get involved in the campaign of any political party. Don’t mix NYSC with politics. You should stay clear of politics,” he said.

The NYSC boss also advised the corps members to exercise caution in their use of social media, warning against cyberstalking, cyberbullying, cyber fraud and other online offences.

According to him, misconduct on digital platforms could have serious consequences for offenders.

“If you are found guilty, you will face the consequences. Be careful about the way you use social media,” Nafiu warned.

He urged the corps members to remain focused on their future and avoid actions that could undermine their personal and professional aspirations.

The Director-General further encouraged them to adopt prudent financial habits, embrace a savings culture and maintain discipline throughout their service year.

Nafiu said the one-year national service programme offers a unique opportunity for young Nigerians to foster national unity by building friendships and relationships across ethnic, religious and cultural lines.

He also called on the corps members to take advantage of the NYSC Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme to acquire practical skills that could enhance their employability and entrepreneurial prospects.

In addition, he encouraged them to explore investment opportunities available in the capital market as part of efforts to secure their financial future.

The DG noted that the recently launched NYSC/Kudimata Capital Market Awareness Sensitisation Programme was designed to expose corps members to investment knowledge and financial planning.

“It is a programme designed to empower you with financial knowledge and investment capacity,” he said.

“It will also enable corps members to make informed financial decisions,” he added.

Earlier, the Lagos State Coordinator of the NYSC, Mrs Christianah Salmwang, briefed the Director-General on activities at the orientation camp.

She disclosed that a total of 9,955 corps members were registered for the 2026 Batch ‘B’ Stream I orientation exercise, including participants undergoing orientation in other states.

Salmwang said the corps members had shown enthusiasm, discipline and commitment since the commencement of the orientation programme, expressing confidence in their readiness to serve the nation.