The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has reaffirmed the relocation of orientation camps in several states, including Kwara and Kaduna, as part of ongoing measures to address security concerns. The Scheme also disclosed that over ₦500 million has been spent on medical interventions for corps members in the past five years.
In a statement responding to an article titled “Urgent: The NYSC Death Trap, Our Graduates Are Being Sold to Bandits,” the NYSC strongly denied the claims, describing them as “entirely fictitious” and intended to misrepresent the institution.
“The narrative not only misrepresents the Scheme’s operations but also attempts to incite fear and undermine public confidence in one of Nigeria’s most critical nation-building institutions,” the statement read.
Addressing specific allegations, the NYSC categorically denied the existence of any “ransom clause” in its legal framework. “For the avoidance of doubt, there is no provision for any ‘ransom clause’ in the NYSC Act, Bye-laws, or any official publication of the Scheme,” it said.
The Scheme also clarified the status of Musa Usman Abba, referenced in the article. While expressing sympathy for his situation, NYSC noted that he is not a serving corps member, having completed his service in 2023, and therefore his case should not be linked to the Scheme.
Highlighting its commitment to corps members’ welfare, the NYSC pointed to a long-standing Memorandum of Understanding with Capital Express Assurance Limited, providing life insurance coverage for all members, which extends up to three weeks after service completion. Corps members are also enrolled in the National Health Insurance Scheme.
The Scheme noted that it has spent over ₦500 million on urgent medical interventions for corps members nationwide in the last five years. It further emphasized collaboration with security agencies to protect members in high-risk areas, a strategy implemented since 2024 in parts of the North West and earlier in some North East states.
As part of its safety measures, orientation camps in high-risk states, including Kebbi, Kaduna, Kwara, Borno, Gombe, and Plateau, have been relocated to safer locations.
Criticizing the publication for failing to seek clarification, the NYSC invoked the journalistic principle audi alteram partem—hear the other side—and warned against the spread of misinformation, urging the media and public to verify reports before dissemination.
Concluding, the Scheme reiterated its dedication to national unity and youth development, assuring Nigerians that the safety and welfare of corps members remain a top priority.
