NYSC DG cautions corps members against night travel, urges strict safety compliance nationwide.
Nafiu says no trip without permission as insecurity worsens across deployment locations in Nigeria.
With insecurity worsening across parts of Nigeria, the Director General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Olakunle Akinyemi Nafiu, has urged corps members to prioritize their safety by avoiding night travel and unauthorized movements.
Brigadier General Nafiu issued the caution during his recent visit to the NYSC orientation camps in Okada, Edo State, and Issele-Uku, Delta State, where he addressed members of the 2025 Batch ‘A’ Stream II. He expressed deep concern over the safety of corps members deployed across the country, especially in the face of ongoing security challenges.
Speaking during the interactive sessions at the camps, the DG emphasized that no corps member is allowed to travel without prior authorization from the NYSC. He warned that any unapproved trip, especially at night, could pose a serious threat to their lives.
“In view of the current national threat on security, corps members are strongly advised to avoid travelling at night,” he said. “Any corps member who wishes to travel must obtain permission. And if it gets to 6pm while on transit, you must find a secure place like a corps lodge, NYSC office, or military barracks to spend the night and continue the journey the next morning.”
The DG’s visit and subsequent warning come amid a wave of security incidents across various states, including reports of kidnappings, road attacks, and violence that have affected both civilians and uniformed personnel. Given the role of corps members in communities across the nation, the NYSC leadership has become increasingly focused on tightening safety protocols.
Brigadier General Nafiu also advised corps members to avoid boarding vehicles outside recognised transport terminals, saying such practices expose them to greater risk. He emphasised the importance of using only vehicles from registered motor parks.
“Avoid roadside pickups,” he warned. “Use only recognized motor parks. Your life is more important than any appointment or engagement.”
Beyond personal safety, the NYSC DG reminded corps members that they are part of a wider community and should look out for one another, whether in camp or in their various places of primary assignment.
“Remain vigilant and security conscious at all times. Watch out for suspicious movements and always report any concerns to camp officials or security agents. Act as your brother’s keeper,” he advised.
The DG also highlighted the commitment of the NYSC to protecting the lives of corps members throughout their service year. According to him, the management continues to work closely with security agencies, traditional leaders, and community stakeholders to ensure that corps members are safe wherever they are posted.
“We are doing everything possible to ensure your safety,” he told the corps members. “We’re in constant partnership with security agencies and host communities, and we urge you to follow our guidelines strictly.”
Brigadier General Nafiu’s comments are part of a broader strategy by the NYSC to respond to the current security environment. The scheme has continued to emphasize safety education during the three-week orientation, stressing responsible conduct and compliance with NYSC travel rules.
The DG’s message was well received by the corps members, many of whom expressed appreciation for the clarity and directness of the safety guidance. Some corps members also used the opportunity to raise questions about their future postings and the level of support they would receive in rural communities.
General Nafiu reiterated that the NYSC would continue to monitor security developments and make adjustments as needed, including working with state governments to improve the condition of corps lodges and provide safer environments.
The NYSC travel policy, which forbids unauthorized movements and requires written permission before any interstate trip, is not new. However, with the current state of insecurity, the scheme is enforcing the rule more strictly. Any corps member caught violating it could face disciplinary action, including an extension of service.
The DG also reminded corps members of the need to notify the appropriate NYSC authorities before taking leave from their assigned places of primary assignment, stressing that the scheme’s records must always be up to date to track their safety.
This renewed focus on safety is in response to recent incidents where some corps members fell victim to attacks while travelling, especially along major highways. The NYSC leadership has responded by engaging more with state security outfits and advocating for better infrastructure, including more secure accommodations and mobility support.
General Nafiu’s visit is part of a nationwide tour to inspect the orientation camps, assess the implementation of the NYSC program, and provide morale-boosting interaction with new corps members.
In his closing message to the 2025 Batch ‘A’ Stream II, he urged them to serve with dedication but never at the expense of their safety. “Your lives matter to us. Serve Nigeria with pride, but always take precautions. Avoid unnecessary risks and make sure your journey throughout this service year ends safely,” he said.
The NYSC is expected to continue its sensitization efforts across other camps in the coming weeks, as more young Nigerians join the one-year scheme designed to foster unity, nation-building, and youth empowerment.
