Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, Director General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), has called on newly-inducted corps members to uphold discipline, respect local traditions, and make meaningful contributions to Nigeria’s socio-economic development throughout their service year.
His charge came during visits to NYSC orientation camps for the 2026 Batch ‘A’ Stream One in Ogun and Oyo states.
A Message of Responsibility and National Commitment
Brigadier General Nafiu commended corps members at camps for willingly answering Nigeria’s national service call.
He’s emphasizing that their actions during the program would not only shape their futures but also impact the communities they serve.
“You future leaders must show discipline, creativity, responsibility to build stronger Nigeria,” Brigadier General Nafiu told the audience.
Respect for Local Culture and Organizational Values
Underscoring the importance of integrating into their host communities.
The NYSC DG urged corps members to respect the customs, rules, and values of the places they would be posted to for their primary assignments.
“At primary assignment, respect rules, stay punctual, be resourceful, learn the organization’s culture,” Nafiu advised corps members.
He further reminded the youth that their conduct during the service year would leave lasting impressions.
Not just on their hosts, but also on the image of the NYSC scheme and the nation at large.
“Uphold good conduct in your host communities and workplaces. Let your actions speak well of your character and the values of the NYSC,” he said.
Personal Finance and Lifelong Skills
In his address, Brigadier General Nafiu also highlighted the importance of sound personal finance management.
He encouraged corps members to cultivate wise spending and saving habits.
Stressing that financial discipline during the service year would support them long after the program’s completion.
“Manage your resources wisely,” he counseled, “as this will go a long way in helping you achieve stability in the future.”
Camp Coordinators Praise Corps Members’ Conduct
Ogun NYSC Coordinator Mrs. Olayinka Nasamu reported 3,341 registered corps members, including 975 initially deployed to Lagos.
She praised the new intakes for adjusting well to the rigors and regimentation of camp life.
“They conducted themselves responsibly and adapted impressively to the regimented camp environment,” Nasamu said.
She commended camp officials’ dedication and synergy, ensuring smooth activities and effective support for corps members during orientation.
In Oyo State, NYSC Coordinator Mr. Kayode Ola Peters disclosed that 3,068 corps members had completed their registration.
He highlighted the participants’ exemplary character and their active engagement in all camp activities.
Orientation Course Nationwide: Timelines and Activities
NYSC Headquarters announced on X: 2026 Batch ‘A’ Stream One Orientation Course started January 21 across Nigeria’s 37 camps.
The statement clarified that camp registration for all corps members would run from January 21 to midnight, Friday, January 23, 2026.
Swearing-in Ceremony occurred Friday, January 23, 2026; Closing Ceremony is set for Tuesday, February 10, 2026.
These events mark the transition of corps members from orientation camp to their various places of primary assignment across the country.
Fostering National Unity and Socio-Economic Growth
Through postings to states and communities different from their places of origin.
Corpers are encouraged to appreciate Nigeria’s diversity and contribute their skills and knowledge to local development initiatives.
Brigadier General Nafiu’s message reinforces the core values of the NYSC: discipline, service, respect, and national integration.
As the 2026 Batch ‘A’ Stream One corps members embark on their journey.
The NYSC leadership’s guidance serves as a timely reminder of the responsibilities and opportunities that come with the privilege of national service.
