The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, has warned corps members to stay away from partisan politics as the 2027 general elections approach.

Mr Nafiu gave the warning while addressing 2026 Batch A, Stream II corps members at the temporary NYSC orientation camp in Gusau on Wednesday.

“The 2027 general elections are around the corner, and you will be engaged by INEC as ad hoc staff. You must be good ambassadors of the NYSC and Nigeria whenever you serve as electoral officers.

“Avoid using social media for political issues. Your duty as corps members is to promote national unity and cohesion,” he said.

The NYSC DG urged corps members to remain law-abiding and contribute to national development.

He also advised them to apply the lessons learned during the three-week orientation course during and after their service year, noting that key lessons include peaceful coexistence, national unity, and development.

Mr Nafiu assured corps members of the federal government’s commitment to prioritising their welfare and security.

He charged them to take the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme seriously, noting that it was designed to equip corps members with practical empowerment skills.

“You should make the best use of the opportunities in SAED,” he added.

Mr Nafiu also stressed the importance of savings and financial management for future economic empowerment.

“Learn to develop multiple income sources and avoid unnecessary spending.

“You should learn to establish businesses so that you won’t rely solely on government jobs after service,” he said.

He further urged corps members to respect the culture of their host communities.

“Be kind to the people of Zamfara and respect their traditions,” he advised.

Earlier, in a welcome address, the NYSC coordinator in Zamfara, Muhammad Lawan, said over 500 corps members registered for the 2026 Batch A, Stream II orientation course.

“All the corps members are in high spirits, well-behaved, and fully compliant with camp rules.

“We have strong cooperation, synergy, and teamwork with security agencies and other stakeholders.

“I am pleased to inform our DG that the Zamfara Government has approved the establishment of a permanent NYSC orientation camp in Gusau, the state capital,” he said. 

(NAN)