By Joy Odor Reportcircle News
The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, has issued a stern warning to Corps Members to shun the growing temptation of abandoning national service, declaring that there must be “no running from the flag” under any guise.
Addressing the 2026 Batch ‘A’ Stream One Corps Members at the NYSC Orientation Camps in Ogun and Oyo States, the DG charged the young graduates to remain committed to the one-year mandatory service and see it as a patriotic duty rather than a burden.
General Nafiu praised the Corps Members for answering the nation’s call, but cautioned that absconding from service undermines national unity and development.
He urged them to channel their energy into meaningful contributions that would drive socio-economic growth across their host communities.
In a no-holds-barred interaction, the NYSC boss also warned against financial recklessness, stressing that prudent money management would not only ease their service year but also lay a solid foundation for life after the khaki uniform.
“Wherever you are posted, respect the rules, be punctual, be resourceful and learn the culture of the organisation and community you are serving,” Nafiu said, while reminding them that discipline and good conduct remain the pillars of the Scheme.
He further charged the Corps Members to respect local cultures and traditions, noting that peaceful coexistence with host communities was non-negotiable.
At the Ogun State Orientation Camp, the State Coordinator, Mrs. Olayinka Nasamu, disclosed that a total of 3,341 Corps Members were registered, including 975 redeployed from Lagos State.
She told the DG that the Corps Members had shown commendable discipline and quickly adapted to the regimented camp environment.
Nasamu also assured that camp officials were discharging their duties with a high level of professionalism and teamwork.
“All camp officials are performing their duties diligently with a strong sense of synergy,” she said.
In Oyo State, the Coordinator, Mr. Kayode Ola-Peters, reported that 3,068 Corps Members had successfully registered, describing their conduct as exemplary.
According to him, the Corps Members had participated actively in camp activities and demonstrated a strong willingness to contribute to national development across all sectors.
The visits underscored NYSC management’s renewed resolve to tighten discipline, reinforce patriotism and ensure that national service remains a cornerstone of youth development and unity in Nigeria.
