The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and welfare of corps members, dismissing as false and misleading a viral publication alleging that Nigerian graduates are being exposed to insecurity under the scheme.
In a statement issued by its management, the NYSC said it had noted “with serious concern the circulation of a misleading and alarmist write-up” titled “Urgent: The NYSC Death Trap Our Graduates Are Being Sold to Bandits”.
The scheme described the publication as one “replete with falsehoods, distortions, and unverified claims”, saying it was aimed at inciting fear and undermining public confidence in the organisation.
According to the NYSC, “There is no provision whatsoever for any ‘ransom clause’ in the NYSC Act, bye-laws, or any official publication of the scheme.” It said the allegation was “entirely fictitious” and should be disregarded.
The agency also clarified the case of Musa Usman Abba, whose situation had reportedly been linked to the scheme, stating that he “is not a serving Corps Member, having completed his national service in 2023.”.
While expressing sympathy to Abba and his family, the NYSC said attempts to associate his ordeal with the scheme were inaccurate and amounted to “a misrepresentation of facts”.
Reaffirming its commitment to the welfare of corps members, the NYSC said it places “the highest premium on the welfare, safety, and well-being of corps members and staff.”
The scheme noted that it has maintained a Memorandum of Understanding with Capital Express Assurance Limited since 2004 to provide life insurance for corps members. It added that all prospective corps members with call-up letters, as well as those who have reported to orientation camps, are covered under the policy.
It also stated that insurance coverage extends for up to three weeks after service, in addition to enrolment under the National Health Insurance Scheme.
On healthcare support, the NYSC disclosed that it had spent more than ₦500 million over the last five years on urgent medical interventions for corps members across Nigeria.
Addressing security concerns, the agency said it works closely with security agencies to safeguard corps members before, during, and after orientation exercises. It added that those posted to areas assessed as high-risk are provided with security arrangements, including military escorts.
The NYSC further said it had relocated orientation camps in states including Kebbi, Kaduna, Kwara, Borno, Gombe, and Plateau to safer locations as part of efforts to protect corps members and camp officials.
The agency accused the author of the controversial publication of failing to seek clarification before going public, saying the “fundamental standard” of hearing all sides had been ignored.
It urged journalists and the public to verify information before publication or circulation, warning that “the spread of fake news not only misinforms the public but also undermines national institutions and erodes trust.”
The NYSC reaffirmed its commitment to national unity, youth development, and nation-building while pledging to continue taking measures to ensure the safety and welfare of corps members across the country.