NYSC: What Is Actually Stress-Free in Nigeria?

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By Umar Samuel Onotu 

Nigeria, a nation with boundless potential, has unfortunately become synonymous with struggle for many of its citizens. From admission into tertiary institutions to securing jobs, the journey for young people, particularly fresh graduates, is riddled with challenges. A glaring example of this is the plight of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members in their search for a Primary Place of Assignment (PPA).

Recently, I couldn't help but pity young corps members roaming the streets in search of organizations willing to accept them for their mandatory service year. Within and outside my office, I have encountered several of them, pleading to be absorbed into institutions where they can contribute meaningfully and fulfill their national duty. It is disheartening to see some of these young individuals rejected by their initial postings, forcing them to desperately scout for alternative places to serve.

Even worse, some corps members are posted to establishments where their skills and field of study are entirely irrelevant. This mismatch often leaves them undervalued and underutilized. The situation is so dire that some are reduced to roles far beneath their qualifications. My younger brother's experience while serving in Ekiti State is a painful reminder. He was essentially turned into a house help, while a colleague of his ended up as a driver for a wealthy man.

The struggle does not begin with NYSC; it starts much earlier. Young Nigerians fight tooth and nail to secure admission into tertiary institutions. They endure years of academic hurdles, manage to graduate, and then face the arduous task of navigating the NYSC process. And even after completing their service year, there is no guarantee of employment. It is a vicious cycle of struggle, frustration, and despair.

For Christ sake, It is heartbreaking to see the youth, the supposed backbone of the nation, subjected to such a precarious system. These young people deserve better.

It is high time we critically reassess the orientation of our nation. We need a system that not only prioritizes education and skill development but also ensures that graduates are properly utilized and rewarded for their hard work. The endless cycle of stress and uncertainty must be broken.

May God help us in Nigeria. And may we as a nation find the wisdom to create a system that fosters prosperity and dignity for all, rather than perpetuating the struggles that have defined us for far too long.

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