2023: NYSC urges corps members to be neutral

Akpan Umoh, Uyo

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has urged Corps Members deployed to Akwa Ibom to remain neutral and also adhere to the guidelines contained in the electoral act throughout the forthcoming 2023 general elections.

The Director-General of NYSC, Brig.-Gen. Yushau Ahmed gave the advice on Tuesday during the closing ceremony of the 2023 Batch ‘A’ stream 1 orientation course at the Orientation Camp, Ikot Itie Udung, Nsit Atai Local Government Area.

Ahmed, who was represented by the NYSC State Coordinator, Mrs Chinyere Ekwe, assured the corps members that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies were committed to ensuring their safety throughout the elections.

“My dear compatriots, as you are already aware, the 2023 General Election are around the corner.

“As was the case with the previous elections conducted, Corps members will form the majority of ad hoc personnel that will be enlisted for the conduct of the exercise.

“It will interest you to know that the performance of your predecessors contributed to the credibility of the previous elections, and earned NYSC accolades from both local and foreign observers.

“Therefore, I enjoin you to take a cue from them by performing the election with a high sense of responsibility,” Ahmed said.

The DG urged the corps members to remain security conscious in their Places of Primary Assignment and avoid acts capable of endangering their lives, adding that the Scheme will continue to ensure their safety throughout their service year 

He also warned corps members against embarking on an unauthorised journey, advising that if given the approval to travel, they should desist from night trips as such movement increases the risk of accidents and also makes rescue difficult in the process.

“You should avoid acts that can endanger your life such as staying out late, attending night parties, visitation of dangerous places, and acceptance of car rides and gifts from strangers. 

“On our part, we are committed to making adequate provisions for your security and the general welfare in line with the policy thrust of my administration.

“Accordingly, we are in constant liaison with security agencies and other critical stakeholders with a view to ensuring your safety as well as addressing other essential needs for a fulfilling service year. 

“You must be wary of acts that can portray the Scheme in a bad light, especially drug abuse and trafficking, cybercrime, advanced-fee-fraud and spreading of fake news, amongst others. 

“Also remember that your membership of the Service Corps does not confer on your immunity from the legal consequences of any wrongdoing,” he said.

The DG urged corps members to build on the skills acquired from the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) by availing yourselves of opportunities for post-camp training to be self-reliant.

Ahmed assured that the NYSC Scheme would continue to liaise with financial institutions and other critical stakeholders to provide them with start-up loans for the actualisation of their dream businesses