As the swearing-in ceremony for the 2025 Batch B Stream I corps members posted to Plateau State draws near, the State Coordinator of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Mr. Yavala Iliya, has assured prospective corps members (PCMs) of their safety while charging them to be disciplined, focused, and open to learning during their three-week orientation course.
Speaking during the official introduction and maiden briefing held at the NYSC Temporary Orientation Camp, Doi Du, Jos South on Thursday, Mr. Iliya welcomed the PCMs and expressed gratitude to God for journey mercies.
The state coordinator further urged them to consider the camp officials as parents and not oppressors.
“We are here to guide you, not to torment you. This camp is your home for the next three weeks, and we expect you to see us as guardians,” he said.
Mr. Iliya emphasized the importance of obeying camp rules and participating in all scheduled activities, noting that the camp is regimented to instill discipline and order.
“You are expected to wake up by 5:30 a.m. and retire by 10:00 p.m. This is to ensure you get adequate rest for the following day’s activities,” he stated.
On the welfare of corps members, he assured them of adequate medical support, stressing that the NYSC nationwide has partnered with the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) to provide free healthcare throughout the service year.
“Rush to the clinic if you’re not feeling well; you will be attended to. We have competent medical personnel on ground.”
“You will enjoy free healthcare for the rest of your service year under NHIA,” he said.
The State Coordinator also emphasized the importance of the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme, describing it as a strategic platform to empower corps members.
“Learn a skill and learn it well. SAED is not just a programme, it is your gateway to financial independence beyond your service year,” she stressed.
While highlighting expectations from the Federal Government, Mr. Iliya listed provisions such as free feeding, healthcare, accommodation, transportation allowance, bicycle allowance, and a monthly stipend of ₦77,000.
He, however, advised the corps members to manage their allowances wisely, adding, “Don’t spend your allowance recklessly. Make good financial decisions early.”
Addressing discipline on camp, Mr. Iliya warned against cultism, theft, and other social vices, noting that security operatives are fully on ground.
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“Don’t constitute a nuisance or steal from your fellow corps members. You are here to build relationships and leadership capacity,” he warned.
He also reminded the PCMs that phones are not allowed during official activities and that unauthorized communication with the press or negative portrayal of the NYSC on social media would not be tolerated.
“You are not permitted to address the press. Avoid spreading false narratives about the scheme,” he added.
Mr. Iliya further urged the corps members to avoid unnecessary travels and to always seek official permission before leaving their places of primary assignment (PPA).
“Don’t be in a hurry to leave Plateau. Don’t endanger your life with frivolous journeys. The safety of corps members remains the top priority of the state government,” he noted.
Meanwhile, the swearing-in ceremony for the PCMs is expected to hold on Friday across the 36 State of the federation including the FCT.
