The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Yushau Dogara Ahmed, has issued a strong warning to corps members, advising them to avoid traveling at night and boarding vehicles from the roadside.
He emphasized the importance of safety, urging corps members to remain vigilant during their service year and adhere to strict travel protocols.
General Ahmed made these remarks on Friday while addressing corps members at the Anambra State Orientation Camp in Mbaukwu and the Ebonyi State Orientation Camp in Afikpo. In his address, he reminded the young Nigerians to view themselves as positive agents of change who could significantly impact their host communities. He encouraged them to engage with the local population, identify the community’s needs, and actively contribute to improving the standard of living through meaningful projects.
He also cautioned the corps members against undertaking unauthorized journeys, particularly at night, due to the dangers associated with such travel. The Director-General urged that if travel was absolutely necessary, they should seek prior permission from both the NYSC and their employers. He stressed the importance of traveling only via designated motor parks, advising corps members not to board vehicles from roadsides where safety cannot be guaranteed.
“Night traveling is fraught with risks, and you must avoid it. Always use the designated motorparks and never board vehicles by the roadside,” General Ahmed warned. He added that the NYSC would always prioritize the well-being of its corps members and expects them to adhere to these guidelines for their own safety.
In addition to the safety advice, the DG encouraged the corps members to foster strong relationships throughout their service year, which would not only enrich their personal experiences but also promote national unity and integration. He reminded them that the NYSC program was founded to strengthen the bonds of citizenship and unity across Nigeria’s diverse regions.
General Ahmed further urged the corps members to use their time during the service year wisely, to focus on planning for their future careers, and to avoid any behavior that could jeopardize their long-term success. He emphasized that the year of service should be viewed as an opportunity for personal growth and development, rather than a time for social distractions or delinquency.
The Director-General’s address underscored the NYSC’s commitment to the safety, welfare, and future success of its corps members, as they contribute to nation-building through their service in various communities across the country.
