The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig.-Gen. Yusha’u Ahmed, has advised corps members to avoid unsafe travel practices often linked to attempts to relocate from their places of primary assignment.
He issued the warning during a visit to the 2024 Batch ‘C’ Stream I corps members at the temporary orientation camp in Kaduna.
Ahmed highlighted the dangers of poor travel decisions, including late-night journeys and unregulated transport, which, he said, expose corps members to heightened security risks. He recounted a recent incident where a corps member was abducted after embarking on a midnight trip.
“Never travel at night or without proper arrangements. Use designated motor parks and ensure your name is on the passenger manifest. Some drivers are under the influence of drugs or alcohol and overload vehicles to maximize profits, risking lives in the process,” Ahmed cautioned.
He urged corps members to adapt to their postings, stating that unnecessary relocations undermine the purpose of the scheme. “Find a sense of belonging where you are posted. This is key to your personal and professional growth,” he said.
The DG also emphasised the importance of respecting local cultures and traditions, urging corps members to focus on making positive contributions to their host communities. “Your security is our concern, but no one can secure you better than yourself,” he added, advising against habits like indecent dressing, which could attract unwanted attention.
Ahmed further encouraged corps members to participate actively in the NYSC’s skills acquisition programs to become self-reliant and entrepreneurial after their service year. He noted that many former corps members who embraced the initiative are now thriving as job creators.
“Skills acquisition is a pathway to independence and productivity. The Federal Government is committed to supporting youths in achieving self-reliance,” he said.
Ahmed concluded by urging corps members to prioritise safety, embrace their service year with resilience, and seize opportunities for personal and community development.
