Why the NYSC May Have Outlived Its Purpose
Why the NYSC May Have Outlived Its Purpose
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), once a symbol of unity and patriotism, is losing its relevance. Created on May 22, 1973, under the General Yakubu Gowon administration, the scheme was designed to foster national integration, break ethnic barriers, and instill self-reliance in Nigerian youths.
In its early years, the NYSC fulfilled its mission. Young graduates were sent to regions far from home, learning new cultures, building friendships, and experiencing life beyond their immediate environment. It was a powerful tool for nation-building.
Today, the story is different. Rising insecurity has turned the once-hopeful journey into a dangerous gamble. Corps members have been kidnapped, attacked, and in some cases, killed while serving. Many parents now dread the call-up letter, fearing for their children’s safety.
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Beyond insecurity, allegations of corruption in posting have stained the scheme’s credibility. Some parents reportedly pay up to ₦200,000 to ensure their children are posted to safer states like Lagos. This creates a system where the wealthy can buy safety while others are sent to volatile areas. The core purpose of NYSC national unity is undermined when postings are influenced by money.
Graduates who survive the one-year service often face another challenge: unemployment. After risking their lives, many return home to join the growing pool of job seekers, questioning the value of the scheme in today’s Nigeria.
If the government insists on keeping NYSC alive, reforms are urgently needed. A comprehensive life insurance policy for all corps members should be non-negotiable. Protecting young Nigerians should be a priority, not an afterthought.
Until then, the question remains has the NYSC outlived its usefulness, or can it be reformed to truly serve the Nigeria of today?
Content Credit : Blessing Dada
Image Credit : Google Search.Com
