By Millicent Ifeanyichukwu
The Director of Media, NYSC Headquarters, Chukwuemeka Mgbemena, has urged corps members to make the scheme’s rules and regulations their guiding principle.
He made this appeal on Thursday during a visit to the 2025 Batch A, Stream 1 corps members at the NYSC Temporary Orientation Camp, Iyana-Ipaja, Lagos.
“Follow the NYSC ethics strictly. Remain disciplined, avoid scandals, and obey all regulations, as defiance today could negatively impact your future,” Mgbemena advised.
He stressed that the scheme’s vision remains relevant, especially in promoting national unity and empowering youths through orientation camp programmes.
He encouraged corps members to engage fully in the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme and explore opportunities with financial partners at the camp.
“The world is ruled by skills. White-collar jobs are fading. NYSC offers you a rare chance to be empowered — take it seriously.
“SAED has produced entrepreneurs among your predecessors. Today, they are directors, thriving as business owners, and contributing to the nation’s GDP,” he explained.
Mgbemena also warned corps members against unnecessary journeys, saying approval must be obtained from the State Coordinator for any essential travel.
“You are the chief security officer of your life,” he stressed.
Speaking during the visit, Group Captain Ibrahim Bukar from Defence Headquarters, Abuja, advised corps members to register with local community leaders.
“I urge corps members to visit the local ‘Baale’ and introduce themselves as children serving the fatherland,” Bukar said.
He explained that such visits help corps members integrate into communities and ensure they are noticed if absent for some time.
Bukar described Lagos as relatively peaceful but advised residents to “see something, say something” to prevent avoidable security threats.
Also speaking, Mrs Christina Salmwang, Lagos NYSC Coordinator, thanked Mgbemena and affirmed that corps members had adapted well to camp life.
She noted that all corps members had been registered, accommodated, and were participating in SAED, advocacy lectures, training, games, and other social activities.
However, she reported damage to canopies due to heavy wind and rain, although noted that two of them have been fixed, while the remaining one is being will be restored soon.
She praised Lagos State Government, Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and partner agencies for their continued support of the orientation camp.
Meanwhile, Mr Biodun Ajiboye, Executive Secretary of the National Institute for Cultural Orientation, encouraged corps members to learn local languages.
He said the institute would provide a platform for learning multiple Nigerian languages, helping promote cultural understanding and national unity.
“Learning local languages also helps you connect with your host community. It aligns with NYSC’s vision,” Ajiboye added.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that corps members entertained guests with presentations, including a Yoruba cultural group and Man O’ War display and martial art display.