The recent abduction of Rofiat Lawal, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, has reignited concerns about the dangers facing young Nigerians deployed for the compulsory one-year service.
Her ordeal has once again sparked debate over the safety and relevance of the NYSC in the current security climate.
Lawal, who had recently commenced her service year, was kidnapped along the Benin-Ore Expressway while traveling from Benin City to Ibadan, where she had been posted. Her abductors initially demanded a ransom of ₦20 million before eventually settling for ₦1.1 million, which was raised through public donations. After four harrowing days in captivity, she was released, but not without lasting trauma.
The Reality of Serving Under Threat
Lawal’s experience is not an isolated case. Reports indicate that in the past year alone, at least a dozen corps members have been kidnapped while traveling to or from their places of assignment. Just last year, eight corps members were abducted in Zamfara while en route from Uyo to Sokoto. Many were held for months until ransoms were paid. In another case, Aisha Shittu, deployed to Kaduna, was forcibly taken from her apartment, with her captors demanding a staggering ₦500 million.
According to investigations by ThisDayLive, over 80 corps members have been kidnapped in the last decade, with a sharp increase in cases over the last five years. The data also reveals that at least ₦80 million has been paid as ransom to secure their release between 2023 and 2025 alone.
NYSC’s Fading Relevance in a Dangerous Era
When the NYSC was established in 1973 under General Yakubu Gowon, its primary mission was to promote national unity by deploying graduates to different parts of the country. At the time, corps members were welcomed and protected by host communities, often receiving free transportation, accommodation, and other forms of goodwill. However, times have changed dramatically.
The current wave of insecurity—ranging from kidnappings to targeted killings—has turned the once-cherished service year into a nightmare for many participants. In 2011, the post-election violence in northern Nigeria led to the tragic deaths of over 800 people, including corps members targeted due to their non-indigenous status. More recently, attacks during elections and on highways have further heightened fears.
Calls for Reform and Improved Security Measures
With growing security concerns, more Nigerians are questioning whether the NYSC should be retained in its current form. Some argue that the scheme needs urgent reforms to align with today’s security realities. Others suggest allowing corps members to serve in their states of origin or within safer regions to minimize risks.
Following recent incidents, the NYSC has withdrawn members from high-risk areas, such as Mbaa in Benue State, where armed groups have made life unbearable for residents. However, this reactive approach does little to reassure corps members and their families.
An analyst recently asked, “Why should a country knowingly expose its young graduates to life-threatening risks under the guise of national unity?” Many now believe that unless the government implements concrete measures to ensure safety, the scheme’s credibility will continue to decline.
A Call for Immediate Action
If the NYSC is to continue, the government must prioritize the security of corps members. Some proposed solutions include:
- Deploying only to low-risk areas or allowing service within home states.
- Providing secure transportation for corps members traveling between states.
- Establishing a dedicated security unit for corps members in volatile regions.
- Enhancing early-warning systems and crisis response mechanisms.
The NYSC was once a symbol of hope and integration, but today, it has become a source of anxiety and fear. Without significant reforms, the risks may soon outweigh any perceived benefits, forcing the nation to rethink how best to protect its young graduates while preserving the core values of the scheme.
Despite the challenges, the federal government has made commendable efforts to improve security across the country. The deployment of more security personnel, intelligence gathering, and increased collaboration between law enforcement agencies have led to the successful rescue of several abducted individuals, including corps members. Recent initiatives aimed at securing highways and reducing the threat of kidnappings show a commitment to addressing the crisis.
The NYSC was once a symbol of hope and integration, but today, it has become a source of anxiety and fear. With sustained government efforts and necessary reforms, the scheme can still fulfill its purpose while ensuring the safety of young graduates serving the nation.