The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Benue State has issued a stern warning to outgoing corps members, urging them to steer clear of fraudulent activities as they prepare to reintegrate into society. The call came during a passing-out ceremony for Batch A, Stream 2 corps members held on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at the NYSC Zonal Office in Makurdi.
State Coordinator Urges Integrity and Patience
Mrs. Veronica Garba, the Benue State Coordinator of NYSC, delivered a heartfelt address to the departing corps members, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the values instilled during their service year. She cautioned against the dangers of seeking quick financial gains through dishonest means, particularly highlighting the risks associated with internet fraud, commonly known as “yahoo yahoo” in Nigeria.
- Key Advice from Garba:
- “Uphold the values and skills acquired during your service year.”
- “Remain patient in your pursuit of success and avoid the ‘get-rich-quick’ mentality.”
- “Fraudulent activities like internet fraud will only lead to trouble.”
- “Stay committed, remain resilient, and trust in divine reward for your efforts.”
Garba stressed that success built on dedication and perseverance is more sustainable than shortcuts that could lead to legal consequences or ruined reputations. She congratulated the corps members for completing their mandatory one-year service, expressing optimism about their future contributions to society.
Commendation for Discipline and Responsibility
Mrs. Comfort Hua, the NYSC Zonal Inspector for Makurdi Zone, also spoke at the event, praising the corps members for their exemplary conduct throughout their service tenure. She specifically noted their punctuality and discipline, as evidenced by their early arrival for the low-key ceremony.
- Hua’s Observations:
- “Your discipline and punctuality today reflect a strong sense of responsibility.”
- “You’ve set a commendable standard during your time here.”
Hua also extended gratitude to the State Coordinator and her team for their consistent support, which she credited for the smooth execution of the service year. She added that the departing corps members would leave a void in the NYSC community due to their positive impact.
Certificates Mark Official End of Service
The ceremony’s highlight was the presentation of Certificates of National Service, a symbolic gesture marking the official conclusion of the corps members’ obligations to the nation. These certificates serve as proof of their participation in the NYSC program, a prerequisite for many job opportunities in Nigeria’s public and private sectors.
- Significance of the Certificates:
- Recognizes completion of the one-year national service.
- Opens doors to employment and further opportunities.
- Represents a milestone in the corps members’ personal and professional journeys.
Context and Broader Implications
The NYSC, established in 1973, aims to foster national unity and development by deploying Nigerian graduates to various states for a year of service. However, as corps members transition out of the program, many face economic pressures in a country grappling with unemployment and inflation. This often tempts some to engage in fraudulent schemes, a trend the NYSC is keen to curb through moral guidance and warnings like Garba’s.
Garba’s message aligns with broader efforts by Nigerian authorities to combat cybercrime, which has gained international notoriety. By encouraging patience and faith, she seeks to redirect the energy of young graduates toward lawful and constructive pursuits, reinforcing the NYSC’s role in shaping responsible citizens.
The event, though understated, underscored the NYSC’s commitment to not only national service but also the long-term welfare and ethical grounding of its participants as they step into an uncertain future.