ADC Calls for one-year NYSC suspension

By Anuoluwa Amao

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has urged the Federal Government to suspend the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme for one year, citing growing security concerns and the need to overhaul the scheme.

The party said the proposed suspension would provide an opportunity for the government to reassess the programme and put stronger safety measures in place before corps members return to the field.

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Speaking in an interview, ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, said the NYSC remains important to national unity but argued that its operations should be reviewed in view of the worsening security situation.

His call followed recent incidents involving the abduction of prospective corps members. Abdullahi questioned how a large number of young Nigerians could be kidnapped despite reports indicating that the affected area was vulnerable to attacks.

He said the protection of corps members and other young Nigerians should be given priority, adding that the government needed to take stronger steps to address security threats.

Abdullahi also criticised the Federal Government’s approach to insecurity, alleging that security personnel lack adequate equipment to effectively confront criminal groups.

The ADC spokesperson further accused President Bola Tinubu of giving greater attention to preparations for the 2027 elections than to Nigerians being held captive by kidnappers.

He also criticised the President’s Independence Day address, saying it failed to adequately address the country’s security challenges and the situation of Nigerians in captivity.