NYSC has released deployment details for 2026 Batch A Stream 1 prospective corps members. The scheme has also issued fresh warnings and guidelines that all PCMs must strictly follow to be allowed into orientation camp. Photo: NYSC Lagos #NYSC2026 #BatchAStream1 #CorpsMembers #NigeriaNews

Datti Baba-Ahmed Mocks Atiku’s Endless Presidential Bids, Says ‘He’s Been Contesting Since My NYSC Days Labour Party’s former vice-presidential candidate, Senator Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, has criticized former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for his unrelenting presidential ambitions, saying Nigeria urgently needs new and visionary leaders to move the country forward. Speaking in a recent interview, Datti recalled that Atiku had already been an aspirant when he was serving his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), emphasizing that the former vice president has remained a serial contender in every election cycle without offering Nigerians tangible change. “When I was doing my NYSC, Baba Atiku was already an aspirant. In 2018, we contested primaries together. In 2023, I was a vice-presidential candidate elsewhere when his own vice president had left him. And now, in 2027 again,” Datti said, expressing frustration at the recycling of old political figures. He lamented that Nigeria’s political landscape has become hostile to genuine reformers and dominated by money politics, godfatherism, and unfulfilled promises that discourage competent citizens from participating. According to him, the nation is full of capable individuals ready to rebuild Nigeria, but the existing political structure prevents them from rising. “There are good Nigerians who can fix this country, but the system is treacherous and discouraging,” he stated. Datti reiterated his belief that a new generation of leaders is ready to take charge, urging Nigerians to rally behind fresh, credible leadership rather than recycling the same political elites. His remarks come amid speculation that Atiku, now linked with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), may once again contest the 2027 presidential election—his seventh bid since 1993.

NYSC DG Stresses Safety, Security, and Dignity in Corps Members’ Deployment January 7, 2026 – Abuja / Nigeria The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, emphasized that corps members’ deployment must prioritize security conditions, welfare, and dignity. He spoke at the 2026 Batch A Pre-Mobilisation Workshop themed “Enhancing Service Delivery Across the NYSC Mobilisation Value Chain.” Key points from his address: Deployment decisions should follow current security realities, government policies, and principles of fairness, equity, and transparency. Any mobilisation process that compromises corps members’ safety or dignity undermines the essence of national service. Operational challenges persist across Corps Producing Institutions (CPIs) and the NYSC, including unqualified uploads, data discrepancies, weak verification, inconsistent application of guidelines, and undue human interference in automated processes. He highlighted the importance of technology and data management, calling for better digital systems, audits, capacity building, and minimal human interference. Stakeholder coordination and communication gaps were identified as bottlenecks needing stronger inter-agency collaboration and data-driven decision-making. Nafiu called for a shift from routine compliance to service excellence, ensuring mobilisation is efficient, transparent, accountable, and people-focused. The DG assured that NYSC management is committed to improving the mobilisation process, enhancing professionalism, ethical conduct, and responsiveness to the needs of prospective corps members.

Broken Promise? Why Has Tinubu’s Government Failed to Give Ex-Corps Members the Jobs It Promised Since July? | Fintter Was the promise of “automatic employment” for ex-corps members a genuine commitment—or just another political announcement that has quietly faded away? Five months after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration publicly announced automatic employment, scholarships, and financial rewards for 210 honoured ex-corps members, the promised jobs are yet to materialise. What was once celebrated as a bold gesture of appreciation for young Nigerians who “went beyond the call of duty” has now become a painful reminder of unfulfilled government pledges. In a statement released by the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) on July 29, the Tinubu government announced that 210 ex-corps members from the 2020–2023 service years would receive automatic employment in the Federal Civil Service, scholarships up to doctoral level within Nigeria, and cash awards of ₦250,000 each. Among them were individuals who had demonstrated exceptional service—and others who had suffered life-changing injuries while serving the nation. For many of the beneficiaries, the announcement was more than symbolic recognition. It represented hope, stability, and a long-awaited breakthrough after years of struggle, unemployment, and sacrifice. But today, that hope has turned into frustration, exhaustion, and a deep sense of betrayal. According to affected ex-corps members who spoke anonymously for fear of victimisation, no job placements have been made, no official communication has followed, and no clear explanation has been given by either the government or the NYSC. Although the promised cash award was reportedly paid, the most critical aspect of the pledge—automatic employment—remains unfulfilled. In October 2025, after public pressure intensified following investigative reports, the ex-corps members were invited to Abuja and instructed to submit documents for “urgent processing.” Many travelled long distances, spending scarce resources they could barely afford. Some arrived without accommodation or support, driven only by the hope that the long-promised jobs were finally becoming a reality. Yet, weeks turned into months—and no one contacted them again. One affected ex-corps member described borrowing money to make the trip, only to return home with nothing. Another said he slept in a religious centre, enduring discomfort and mosquito-infested nights, believing the government was finally about to fulfil its word. Instead, they were met with silence. Even more troubling are the stories of ex-corps members who sustained permanent injuries during national service. For them, the promise of government employment was not merely an opportunity—it was a lifeline. Many say private employers now reject them because of their disabilities. The government’s pledge had restored their sense of dignity and belonging, if only briefly. One injured ex-corps member said: “When they promised automatic employment, I believed there was still a place for me in this country despite my condition. Today, nobody has even called or sent an email.” The emotional toll has been devastating. Beneficiaries say the process left them financially drained, psychologically exhausted, and feeling used for public relations. What was once a moment of national praise has become a story of disappointment, neglect, and broken trust. The situation raises serious questions about government accountability, youth unemployment, and the credibility of public promises. If young Nigerians who risked their lives in service of the nation can be publicly honoured—and then quietly ignored—what message does that send to millions of other youths struggling for opportunity? Now, the affected ex-corps members are appealing directly to the federal government to redeem its word. They insist they do not want sympathy or publicity—they want action. As one of them put it: “We don’t want to be used as tools for government promotion. We only ask that the promises made to us be fulfilled.” --- 💬 Conversation Starters for Fintter Readers Should government promises come with legal consequences when they are not fulfilled? Is this another example of young Nigerians being used for political image-building? Why has there been no official explanation from the Presidency or the NYSC? What does this mean for trust in future government youth empowerment programmes? 👉 Join the discussion on Fintter: Do you believe the Tinubu administration will still honour this promise—or has it already been abandoned?

Abductors Demand ₦450million Ransom for Kwara Monarch, NYSC Son and Eight Residents as Kidnappings Escalate in Ifelodun LGA Kidnappers who abducted the Oniwo of Aafin, Oba Simeon Olaonipekun, his son and eight other residents in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State have demanded a total ransom of ₦450 million for their release. The criminals are asking for ₦150 million for the monarch and his son, Olaolu, a serving NYSC member, while ₦300 million has been demanded for eight residents abducted from Adanla-Irese, near Igbaja. Family sources and the Kwara South Joint Community Security Watch Network confirmed that the abductors made contact with the victims’ families following the New Year’s Eve attack on the monarch’s palace, during which his wife was shot and injured. The twin abductions have intensified fears over worsening insecurity across Kwara South, with residents urging urgent government intervention, even as police say they are unaware of any ransom demands and insist security agencies are working to rescue the victims.

BREAKING: Gunmen Abduct Kwara Monarch and Son During New Year’s Eve Palace Attack in Ifelodun, Shoot Queen as Insecurity Worsens Gunmen suspected to be terrorists have abducted the monarch of Aafin Community, Oba S.Y. Olaonipekun, and his son, Olaolu, a serving National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, during a violent New Year’s Eve attack on the royal palace in Ile-Ire, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State. The incident occurred around 8:00pm on Wednesday, December 31, 2026, throwing the community into fear and panic. Eyewitnesses said the attackers stormed the palace at Aafin Ile-Ere, firing sporadically and breaking down doors to gain access. During the attack, the queen consort, Olori Felicia Olaonipekun, was shot in the arm but escaped abduction and was later rushed to the hospital for treatment. A palace source revealed that at least 10 family members and visitors were inside the palace at the time. The community’s vigilante group, with only two members on night duty, was unable to resist the heavily armed gunmen. The attackers reportedly focused solely on the palace and did not target other homes in the area. The abduction comes amid growing insecurity in Kwara South, recalling a recent case in which another monarch in Ifelodun Local Government Area was kidnapped and later released after a huge ransom was paid by community members. The latest incident has renewed concerns over the safety of traditional rulers and residents, as authorities are yet to announce any arrests or rescue efforts.

Crisis in Adamawa: Militias Allegedly Murder NYSC Member Beecroft Wenisefrus Dankunama, Sparks Ethnic Tensions Tensions have escalated in Adamawa State following the alleged murder of Beecroft Wenisefrus Dankunama, a serving NYSC member and Tsobo indigene, while returning from medical treatment. Local sources claim he was stopped, abducted, and killed by suspected Bachama youths. The Tsobo Youth Development Association condemned the attack, calling it a direct threat to peace and urging security agencies and the NYSC Director-General to investigate. The incident has reignited fears over the safety of NYSC members and travellers in the region.

Ex-Corps Member Who Saved ₦77,000 NYSC Allowance For 12 Months Launches Foodstuffs Business, Shows Fully Stocked Shop A former National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member has gone viral after revealing that she saved her ₦77,000 monthly allowance for 12 months to start a foodstuffs business. The young entrepreneur shared a TikTok video displaying her newly rented and fully stocked shop, encouraging viewers to calculate how she managed her finances throughout her service year. Her post sparked widespread reactions online, with many Nigerians expressing surprise at how substantial the shop appeared despite being funded solely from her NYSC allowance. While some doubted her claims, others praised her discipline, financial planning, and entrepreneurial spirit, describing her journey as an inspiration to Nigerian youths seeking self-reliance after service.

NAHCON Commissioner Defies VP Shettima’s Order, Retains Retired Staff Amid Nepotism Allegations The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) is facing fresh controversy as insiders accuse Commissioner of Operations, Anofi Elegushi, of ignoring Vice-President Kashim Shettima’s directive by retaining a retired officer, Mr. Gaffar, who left the commission in 2023. The retired officer reportedly attends official meetings, travels with the commissioner, and maintains offices in Abuja and Saudi Arabia — actions seen as violations of Public Service Rules. Elegushi is also accused of keeping a former NYSC corps member allegedly related to him, granting her full staff privileges despite her service ending months ago. These actions allegedly defy a written directive from VP Shettima rejecting NAHCON’s request to re-engage retired staff and ordering all such appointments reversed. Staff fear retaliation, with claims that Elegushi is consolidating power ahead of a possible bid for the NAHCON chairmanship. Efforts to reach him were unsuccessful.

Fulani Militias Kill NYSC Member’s Father, Four Others in Taraba Community Attack An NYSC member, Orkeghen Philip Aondofa, has raised alarm after armed herders attacked his community, New-Gboko in Takum LGA of Taraba State, killing his father and four relatives. The attackers reportedly took over the village, forcing all residents to flee and preventing him from retrieving his father’s body for burial. Philip, who is serving in Enugu, said one of the assailants called him with his late father’s phone and confessed to the killing. He accused the Taraba State government of staying silent despite ongoing attacks across Chanchanji ward. The grieving corps member appealed to the Federal Government for assistance, saying he is stranded, homeless, and without hope as violence continues to ravage communities in the area.

VIDEO: Borno kids steal show at NYSC camp with flawless march past A group of primary school children from host communities in Borno State thrilled participants at the NYSC orientation camp in Maiduguri with a precise and energetic marching display during the inter platoon parade competition. The viral footage shows four children marching confidently beside corps members, sparking loud cheers from onlookers who were visibly delighted by their coordination and enthusiasm. --- Continue reading in the comment section

JUST IN: NYSC Reform Committee hereby invites the general public and relevant stakeholders to the NYSC Reform Stakeholders’ Consultative Engagement Forum.

The Senate has begun amending the Terrorism Act, passing a bill for first reading to classify kidnapping as terrorism punishable by death. Lawmakers also set up an 18-member ad hoc committee, led by Senator Orji Kalu, to investigate the Safe School Initiative amid concerns over misused funds and rising school attacks. This follows recent violent incidents, including mass abductions in Niger and Kebbi states. Meanwhile, President Tinubu has declared a nationwide security emergency, ordering fresh military and police recruitment and authorising NYSC camps to be used as training centres.

Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo has urged the Federal Government to include security training in the NYSC programme to help tackle insecurity. Speaking on Channels TV, he said corps members should be trained to act quickly and improve national vigilance. He called on Nigerians to support President Tinubu’s security measures and suggested adopting Israel’s youth-defense model. Ashimolowo also warned that state police could be abused by powerful individuals. He encouraged unity and collective efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s security.

"Flush out these bandits"- Tinubu orders Police, DSS to storm forests in Nigeria. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a nationwide security emergency, directing security agencies to intensify operations against terrorists and armed groups hiding in forests across the country. In a national address on Wednesday, the President ordered the Department of State Services (DSS) to immediately deploy trained forest guards to comb and secure wooded areas where bandits and insurgents are believed to be operating. He also authorised the agency to embark on fresh recruitment to strengthen manpower for the operation. “There will be no more hiding places for agents of evil,” Tinubu warned, instructing the DSS and police to storm forested regions and flush out criminal elements responsible for recent deadly attacks. As part of the emergency measures, the President approved the recruitment of an additional 20,000 police personnel, increasing the force to 50,000 officers nationwide. He further directed that National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camps be used as temporary training facilities to fast-track the process. Tinubu also ordered the withdrawal of police officers attached to VIPs, saying the personnel would undergo rapid retraining and be redeployed to areas facing heightened security threats. “My fellow Nigerians, this is a national emergency, and we are responding by deploying more boots on the ground,” he said, urging citizens to support security agencies and report suspicious activities. The President commended security operatives for securing the release of kidnapped schoolgirls in Kebbi State and worshippers abducted in Kwara, assuring that efforts to rescue remaining hostages including students kidnapped in Niger State would continue. While praising the Armed Forces for their sacrifices, Tinubu cautioned against indiscipline, collusion, or negligence, stressing that the military must restore peace across all operational zones. He also encouraged states with established security outfits to intensify local efforts and called on the National Assembly to begin reviewing laws that would allow states to create their own police structures where necessary. Addressing the long-running clashes between herders and farmers, Tinubu urged herder groups to embrace ranching and take advantage of the newly created Livestock Ministry, warning against continued open grazing and illegal possession of weapons. The President extended condolences to families affected by recent attacks in Kebbi, Borno, Zamfara, Niger, Yobe, and Kwara, and paid tribute to military personnel who lost their lives, including Brigadier-General Musa Uba. “Those who want to test our resolve should never mistake our restraint for weakness,” he stated.

NYSC Corp member has got the social media buzzing as he shows off his majestic marching skills

Troops rescue 74 NYSC members from kidnappers hotspot in Borno. In a dramatic late-night operation, troops of the Joint Task Force, North East Operation Hadin Kai, rescued 74 stranded National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members from what could have been a major abduction by Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists along the Buratai–Kamuya Road in Borno State. According to the Force’s Media Information Officer, Sani Uba, the incident occurred around 9:05 p.m. on Tuesday after the corps members 36 males and 38 females were left stranded when their 3 buses broke down near a notorious kidnapping hotspot. Uba revealed that troops swiftly moved in after a military surveillance system picked up suspicious movement involving the vehicles. “On arrival, troops discovered the stranded NYSC members and quickly moved to secure them from a likely Boko Haram or ISWAP attack,” he stated. The rescued corps members are currently being sheltered at the Buratai military base while arrangements for their safe evacuation are underway. This latest intervention follows a string of successful counterterrorism operations in Borno, where troops recently rescued 86 kidnapped victims and arrested 29 suspected terrorist logistics suppliers. Earlier this week, the 135 Special Forces Battalion under Sector 2 OPHK intercepted Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters at Dutse Kura, destroying 11 terrorist structures and recovering a cache of weapons, vehicles, and motorcycles. Security officials have hailed the swift response as a major success in ongoing efforts to protect civilians and dismantle terrorist strongholds in the North East.

"You don’t have NYSC certificate" — Lagos CP informs Activist Sowore. The Lagos State Commissioner of Police has fired back at activist Omoyele Sowore, describing him as unqualified to question the competence of the police leadership in the state. Reacting to comments made by Sowore in a recent interview, the Commissioner said he has served diligently for over nine months and has demonstrated professionalism in his duties. “During his interview, he said the Commissioner of Police is not competent. I am very competent. I’ve been here for more than nine months,” he stated. “Even in court, where the accused person shows good conduct, the prosecution still has the right to point out his bad conduct.” He further alleged that Sowore lacks a valid National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate, claiming that although the activist was posted to Adamawa, he never completed the mandatory one-year service. “I want to make it abundantly clear Sowore doesn’t have an NYSC certificate. He was posted to Adamawa and never did his service. So such a person, who isn’t qualified to bear the NYSC certificate of our great country Nigeria, cannot be the one calling others miscreants or disturbing the peace of Lagos. We won’t allow it,” the Commissioner said. The police remarks have sparked reactions online, with many calling for restraint and others demanding proof to back the allegations. Sowore is yet to respond publicly to the Commissioner’s comments.

Sowore does not have NYSC certificate – Lagos CP. Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, has accused human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, of not having the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, certificate. Jimoh made this disclosure on Wednesday when he appeared as a guest on ‘Sunrise Daily’, a programme on Channels Television monitored by DAILY POST. The police commissioner had declared Sowore wanted for allegedly planning to incite public disorder and obstruct major roads in the state. “I want to make it abundantly clear that Sowore doesn’t have a NYSC certificate because of punitive reasons. He was posted to Adamawa, and he was evasive. He never did his service. “So such a person that is not even qualified to bear the NYSC certificate of our great country, Nigeria, will now be coming out to disturb the peace of Lagos? We will not allow it,” he said.

15,000 Candidates Forged Admission Letters to Participate in NYSC Scheme – JAMB. The Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, has revealed that the agency identified 15,000 candidates who forged admission letters to qualify for participation in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). Speaking on Monday at the 2025 Batch C pre-mobilisation workshop in Abuja, Oloyede confirmed that those involved are being prosecuted for alleged forgery. He further disclosed that 17 Deputy Vice-Chancellors, several Deputy Registrars, and four JAMB staff are currently in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) over similar allegations.