NYSC Warns Corps Members After Fake – The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has issued a strong and urgent warning to corps members across the country following the circulation of a deceptive and dangerous leaflet that claims to contain official NYSC safety instructions.
According to the management of the NYSC, the document, described as a “safety pamphlet”, is entirely fake and has no connection whatsoever to the organization.
The leaflet in question instructs corps members to prepare to pay ransom if they are ever kidnapped, a message that NYSC says is not only false but extremely risky and capable of putting young Nigerians in harm’s way.
In light of this development, the organization is reminding every corps member to rely solely on verified NYSC channels for all security-related information.
This updated guide explains everything corps members need to know about the fake safety pamphlet, NYSC’s official position, and how to recognize credible information during their service year.
A Dangerous Pamphlet That NYSC Never Approved
The misleading pamphlet surfaced online and through informal channels, packaged to look like an official NYSC safety guide. It contains troubling instructions stating that corps members should cooperate with kidnappers and even make payments if abducted.
The NYSC has clarified that this pamphlet did not originate from the organization. It is not part of the approved safety materials distributed during orientation camps, it does not appear in any official handbook, and it does not reflect any NYSC policy, past or present.
Although a consultant once submitted a similar draft for consideration in 2021, the NYSC leadership rejected it outright. The mere appearance of the unauthorized document years later shows how easily misinformation can put corps members at risk if not cross-checked.
NYSC Reassures Corps Members About Its Real Safety Policy
In a formal statement issued by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Mrs. Caroline Embu, the NYSC emphasized that the organization has never advised corps members to pay ransom in any situation involving kidnapping or abduction. The claim is false, dangerous, and should be disregarded immediately.
The NYSC further stressed that it remains fully committed to the security and overall wellbeing of its members. The organization works closely with security agencies across the country, receives constant intelligence updates, and regularly reviews its safety protocols to protect corps members in all states.
Security remains one of the most important pillars of the NYSC Scheme, and any information that contradicts the official safety guidelines must be treated as suspicious.
The Official NYSC Position: No Ransom Payments, No Exceptions
The organization’s message is clear:
The NYSC does not support, encourage, or endorse ransom payment under any circumstance.
Ransom payments:
- Embolden criminals
- Increase insecurity
- Place corps members in greater danger
- Are not recognized by any NYSC policy
The pamphlet suggesting ransom payments directly contradicts both national security guidelines and the position of all major security agencies in Nigeria.
How the Fake Pamphlet Spread and Why Corps Members Must Be Alert
Because corps members often share materials informally in groups, hostels, WhatsApp platforms, and social media channels, it is easy for an unofficial document to appear legitimate. The fake pamphlet was designed to look official, with NYSC colours, fonts, and formatting, making it believable to those who do not cross-check materials before circulating them.
This incident highlights why corps members must always:
- Verify information with their Local Government Inspector (LGI)
- Confirm updates from State Coordinators
- Check the official NYSC website and social media handles
- Never rely on random printouts or forwarded images
The NYSC has encouraged corps members to treat every unverified document with suspicion, especially materials related to safety, medical emergencies, or financial instructions.
Why Fake Safety Information Is Dangerous
Security-related misinformation can lead to:
- Panic
- Wrong decisions during emergencies
- Increased vulnerability
- Loss of trust in genuine safety measures
When false instructions enter training systems or youth groups, they can misguide thousands of young Nigerians serving the nation. A pamphlet suggesting ransom payments puts corps members at risk of exploitation. Criminals can use such misinformation to manipulate victims or escalate threats.
This is why NYSC management responded swiftly and firmly before the document could mislead more people.
NYSC’s Commitment to Corps Members’ Welfare
The organization reaffirmed that it will continue working with:
- The Nigerian Police Force
- Department of State Services (DSS)
- Civil Defence Corps
- State security outfits
- Community authorities
Through these partnerships, the NYSC ensures that corps members posted across Nigeria receive guidance, protection, and timely support. NYSC safety officers, camp commandants, and zonal coordinators are constantly trained to assist corps members in distress.
Corps members are also encouraged to report suspicious activities, movements, or individuals around their areas of primary assignment (PPA) and host communities.
NYSC’s Message to Corps Members: Stay Alert, Stay Informed
The organization’s final note in the warning emphasizes the need for corps members to stay informed and trust only the official channels. The NYSC motto, “Nigeria is ours; Nigeria we serve,” reflects the shared responsibility of protecting both the country and the youth serving within it.
Corps members are urged to:
- Attend official safety briefings
- Read only the approved NYSC handbook
- Follow updates from the official platforms
- Avoid spreading unverified messages
Mrs. Caroline Embu signed the statement on behalf of the NYSC Management, reminding corps members that accurate information saves lives while misinformation can endanger them.
Why It Is Important for Corps Members to Be Cautious in the Digital Age
Today’s digital environment makes misinformation far more common than before. With image-editing tools, AI-generated text, and unofficial NYSC fan pages everywhere, corps members must double-check every security advisory they see.
A document that appears real can be fabricated. A message forwarded by a fellow corps member may still be incorrect. Online platforms can spread false information in minutes.
This makes personal vigilance essential. Young Nigerians must build the habit of verifying everything related to:
- Safety
- Finances
- Medical instructions
- Posting and redeployment
- Clearance procedures
- Participation in official NYSC activities
The NYSC believes that informed corps members are safer corps members.
How Corps Members Can Confirm Genuine Safety Information
To ensure that you are relying only on real instructions, always cross-check with:
- The official NYSC website
- The verified NYSC Facebook, X (Twitter), and Instagram pages
- State NYSC secretariats
- Orientation camp officials
- Your LGI and Zonal Inspector
If an instruction tells you to pay anything outside official NYSC-approved payments, be suspicious. If a document encourages unlawful behavior, reject it immediately. If a pamphlet contradicts NYSC standing rules, report it to officials.
These verification steps protect both corps members and the integrity of the institution.
NYSC’s Reassurance to Parents and Guardians
Many parents were alarmed when the fake pamphlet began circulating, especially those who have children serving in high-risk or rural areas. The NYSC management assured families that the organization does not take its security responsibilities lightly.
Parents are encouraged to guide their wards to follow only verified instructions from NYSC and ignore unapproved documents.
A Final Word From the NYSC
The statement ends with a patriotic reminder that the NYSC Scheme is built on unity, service, and national responsibility. Protecting corps members is a core duty of the organization, and misinformation will never be allowed to mislead those serving their nation.
The official communication concludes with the words:
“Nigeria is ours; Nigeria we serve.”
More Posts…..
- NYSC Batch C 2025 Orientation Date And Essential Packing Guide
- NYSC Batch B Stream II 2025 – Full Registration Guidelines
- Guide to Upload Thesis on NERD for NYSC 2025
- LASU Job Recruitment 2025 Apply Now for Lecturers and Technologists
- FUOTUOKE Vice Chancellor Recruitment 2025 – Apply Before Deadline Now
- JAMB Admission Letter Printing For UTME Candidates 2025 – Easy Guide
