By Daniel Ado
ABUJA — The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Olakunle Nafiu, has cautioned Corps Members to remain strictly non-partisan as they prepare for participation in the 2027 general elections.
Nafiu gave the directive while addressing 2026 Batch ‘A’ Stream II Corps Members at the Kubwa orientation camp in the Federal Capital Territory and the Keffi camp in Nasarawa State, stressing the critical role they play as ad hoc staff in Nigeria’s electoral process.
“You will participate in the 2027 general elections. As stakeholders, you must be completely non-partisan, and this must be reflected even in your social media engagements,” he said.
He urged the Corps Members to deploy social media responsibly, describing it as a platform that should promote unity rather than division.
“Use social media with a sense of responsibility. Let it reflect the ideals of the NYSC and the unity of our nation,” he added.
Beyond electoral duties, Nafiu encouraged Corps Members to take advantage of the service year to build lasting relationships and gain broader exposure across the country.
“Make friends and treasure those relationships. They may have endless positive possibilities,” he said, noting that many prominent Nigerians forged enduring bonds during their service year.
He further urged them to sustain the spirit of unity and cooperation experienced during orientation camp.
“The spirit of camaraderie, passion, and oneness that you have shown should be carried into your future in furtherance of national unity,” he said.
Highlighting the importance of service, Nafiu reminded Corps Members of their responsibility to give back to society.
“Some of you may have been taught by Corps teachers in the past. Now, it is your turn to serve others and give back to the country,” he noted.
On post-service opportunities, the NYSC boss advised participants to take the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme seriously, describing it as a viable pathway to employment and income generation.
“Engage in SAED with commitment. It can provide extra income or even full-time jobs after your service year,” he said.
He also urged financial prudence, advising Corps Members to save part of their allowances despite the challenges of the service year.
NYSC FCT Coordinator, Samson Ateli, disclosed that 6,225 Corps Members had registered in the FCT, while Nasarawa State Coordinator, Salamatu Muhammad, said 2,679 were registered at the Keffi camp, including 796 deployed to serve in the FCT.
© 2026, Standard Focus. All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from STANDARD FOCUS.