The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has clarified that the query issued to about 200 corps members was not due to their non-participation in a Christmas carol, as previously claimed. Instead, the corps members failed to participate in their scheduled Community Development Service (CDS) activities, a crucial aspect of the NYSC program aimed at promoting community development and social cohesion.
According to Caroline Embu, Acting Director of Information and Public Relations, the affected corps members were also absent during the December 2024 headcount in Atiba and did not obtain the required written permission to travel outside the state between December 16, 2024, and January 6, 2025.
As part of their service year, corps members are expected to engage in General Community Development Service (GCDS) activities, which include weekly CDS and monthly GCDS programs.
Failure to participate in these activities can result in penalties, including the withholding of the Certificate of National Service, a mandatory requirement for all corps members .
The NYSC emphasized that every corps member is free to practice their chosen religion without coercion, as guaranteed by the Nigerian constitution. The queries issued to the corps members serve as a corrective mechanism, aligning with the NYSC’s Bye-Laws, which guide corps members’ activities and stipulate penalties for offenses.
