NYSC still key to National Unity, Says Media Director

The Director of Media at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Julian Mgbemena, has reaffirmed the scheme’s importance as a tool for promoting national cohesion, despite growing debates over its relevance in today’s Nigeria.

He made the remark during an official visit to the Lagos Orientation Camp in Iyana-Ipaja on Thursday, as part of the 2025 Batch “A” Stream I Orientation Course.

Addressing corps members, Mr Mgbemena — who was born during the Nigerian Civil War — described NYSC as instrumental to rebuilding trust among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups in the post-war era. 

“The NYSC was created to heal the wounds of war and foster unity among our people,” he said. “That purpose remains just as important today.”

His comments come amid renewed public discussions about the scheme’s effectiveness and security challenges in some parts of the country, which have led to calls for reform or even abolition. 

However, Mr Mgbemena maintained that NYSC continues to fulfil its founding mandate through cross-cultural integration, collaboration, and even marriages that emerge from service year postings.

He urged corps members to take all four phases of the service year seriously and to fully engage in the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme. 

“The SAED initiative is not just a side activity,” he said. “It’s a critical path to self-reliance in a country grappling with high youth unemployment.”

Mr Mgbemena also reminded corps members of the need to stay security-conscious and avoid travelling without official clearance. 

“There are safety protocols in place for your protection,” he said. “Follow them, and always inform the authorities before making any movements.”

He added his address by encouraging corps members to uphold the values of excellence and integrity throughout their service year. 

“Distinguish yourselves wherever you are posted,” he said. “Place your trust in God and serve your country with pride.”

Earlier, the Lagos State NYSC Coordinator, Christiana Salmwang, briefed the visiting director on camp activities and commended the corps members for their discipline and active participation. 

She also revealed that work had commenced on the permanent orientation camp in Agbowa, Ikorodu, being developed by the Lagos State Government.

The new facility, once completed, is expected to enhance the quality of orientation training and reduce dependence on temporary sites.