2027: Stay away from partisan politics, NYSC DG warns corps members

Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, the Director-General of Nigeria's National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), has issued a stern warning to corps members, advising them to steer clear of partisan politics as preparations for the 2027 general elections commence. The directive was given during a town hall meeting with 2026 Batch ‘B’ Stream I corps members in Gombe State.

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Don’t go to campaign grounds as a corps member.

Nafiu underscored the NYSC's long-standing reputation for political neutrality, a principle he stated is crucial for the scheme's credibility. He cautioned that any involvement in political campaigns or the use of NYSC uniforms and insignia at political gatherings could be misconstrued, potentially leading to damaging public perceptions that the scheme is aligned with a specific party. "Your explanation will not be satisfactory," he warned, emphasizing that the NYSC must remain apolitical.

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If I grab you with this face cap, this crested vest, this white-on-white and this khaki at a campaign ground and they capture you, the headline will be: ‘NYSC aligns with XYZ party.’ Your explanation will not be satisfactory. NYSC is apolitical. We do not align with any political party.

The Director-General highlighted that the trust placed in corps members by Nigerians and the international community for critical election responsibilities, such as serving as INEC ad hoc staff, is rooted in this neutrality. He urged them not to jeopardize this trust, which has been built over 53 years. "We will not allow you to cross that line," he stated.

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The country has known us for that for the past 53 years. Nigerians and the international community are comfortable seeing us serve as INEC ad hoc staff election after election because they trust us. Don’t spoil it in your time. We will not allow you to cross that line.

Beyond political neutrality, Nafiu encouraged the corps members to actively contribute to positive change within the system rather than merely criticizing from the sidelines. He advised them to embrace hard work, cultivate meaningful relationships, and reduce their reliance on excessive social media use, urging them to "run your race" and believe in themselves.

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You have a chance to make a difference. When you sit on the sidelines and criticise, you don’t know what is actually happening on the pitch. Always give people the benefit of the doubt. Believe in yourself and run your race.