(DDM) – The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has issued a firm warning to serving Corps members across the country, urging them to exercise greater discipline and responsibility in their use of social media platforms.
DDM gathered that the latest caution followed growing concerns within the Scheme over online posts capable of portraying the NYSC or Nigeria in a negative light.
The Scheme noted that some Corps members have recently engaged in irresponsible digital conduct, including spreading misinformation, posting sensitive camp activities, and making disparaging comments about their host communities.
The NYSC warned that such behaviour not only violates established regulations but could also attract strict disciplinary action from authorities overseeing the one-year national service programme.
The directive was delivered by the NYSC Director General, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, on Friday, 28 November 2025, while addressing members of the 2025 Batch ‘C’ at the Delta State Orientation Camp in Issele-Uku.
A statement released on the Scheme’s official Facebook handle explained that the DG’s message stemmed from the rising influence of social media on public opinion and the need for Corps members to uphold the integrity of the institution.
The DG emphasized that every post made by a Corps member contributes to shaping how the public views the NYSC and the country at large.
He warned that unguarded comments, misleading videos, and sensational narratives have the potential to distort facts and create false impressions that undermine national unity.
Nafiu encouraged young Nigerians undergoing service to avoid becoming tools for misinformation or amplifiers of unverified content capable of igniting unnecessary controversies.
He urged them to embrace digital responsibility by sharing only factual, constructive, and community-oriented updates that reflect the core values of the Scheme.
The DG further reminded Corps members to comply strictly with all camp rules, including attendance for morning drills, adherence to curfew regulations, and respect for the cultural values of host communities.
He reiterated that unauthorised trips remain prohibited and could lead to sanctions, especially when such incidents expose participants to security risks.
Nafiu also advised Corps members to pay close attention to essential orientation activities such as registration, biometrics, lectures, and community development service preparations.
He noted that these activities are designed to prepare them for productive engagement in their host communities during the primary assignment stage.
The NYSC stressed that distractions arising from excessive or reckless social media use could prevent Corps members from fully participating in the programme and benefiting from its objectives.
The Scheme cautioned that violations of its digital communication guidelines would attract disciplinary measures as provided under its regulations.
Officials at the Issele-Uku Orientation Camp also appealed to Corps members to prioritise their safety, maintain discipline, and demonstrate maturity as representatives of Nigeria’s youth population.
The NYSC described responsible digital conduct as a key component of leadership and national development, urging participants to uphold values that promote unity, mutual respect, and civic accountability.
The warning comes at a time when the role of social media in shaping public narrative continues to expand, especially among Nigerian youths who rely heavily on digital spaces for expression and activism.
The DG concluded his address by urging Corps members to view themselves as ambassadors of peace, progress, and professionalism throughout their service year.
He emphasized that discipline, respect, and constructive communication remain essential in building a stronger, more united nation.