As the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) commenced its latest orientation exercise across the country, anxiety has gripped prospective corps members and their families following rising insecurity in several states classified as high-risk.
Findings show that the opening of orientation camps in parts of the North and North-Central regions has been overshadowed by fears of banditry, terrorism and kidnapping, which have intensified in recent months. States such as Zamfara, Kaduna, Katsina, Sokoto, Niger, Plateau, Yobe, Borno, Kogi and parts of Kwara have witnessed recurring security challenges, raising concerns about the safety of newly mobilised graduates.
Several corps members who spoke on the development recounted harrowing journeys to their respective camps, describing long road trips marked by tension and uncertainty due to reports of attacks along major highways. Some said their families strongly opposed their deployment to volatile areas but eventually allowed them to report after assurances from NYSC officials.
At various orientation camps, a heavy presence of security personnel—including soldiers, police officers and other security agencies—was observed. Authorities say these measures were put in place to reassure corps members and prevent any breach of security during the three-week orientation programme. In some states, camps were relocated to safer locations closer to state capitals to reduce exposure to threats.
Despite the security arrangements, many parents and stakeholders have continued to express concern, urging the Federal Government and state authorities to prioritise the safety of corps members throughout their service year. Education advocates have also called for a review of deployment policies to minimise postings to areas with persistent security risks.
NYSC officials, however, have maintained that the scheme is working closely with security agencies nationwide to ensure the protection of corps members. They advised participants to remain vigilant, comply with safety guidelines and avoid unnecessary travel or public disclosure of their locations.
As thousands of young Nigerians embark on the mandatory national service, the prevailing insecurity has once again highlighted the broader challenge facing the country—balancing national integration objectives with the urgent need to guarantee the safety of its citizens.
Credit: Punch Newspaper