NYSC DG Urges Corps Members to Verify Information, Warns Against Political Campaigning Ahead of 2027

The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps, Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, has warned corps members against sharing unverified information on social media, urging them to confirm the authenticity of content before reposting, especially as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections.

Nafiu issued the warning on Wednesday during an inspection visit to the NYSC permanent orientation camp in Katsina State, where he encouraged corps members to build critical thinking skills and scrutinise online content before sharing or commenting on it. He said corps members had a duty to help combat misinformation and shield the public from the effects of false and manipulated content. “Do not believe everything you see on social media. Before you share, think through it. Check the picture and ask when it was first taken and whether there has been any manipulation,” he said.

He cited instances of old photographs and videos being falsely circulated as recent incidents involving the scheme, describing them as clear examples of how misinformation can mislead the public. He further cautioned corps members to be especially wary of AI-generated and digitally manipulated content, noting that advancing technology has made it increasingly difficult to distinguish real content from fabricated material.

The NYSC boss stressed that the orientation programme goes beyond instilling discipline and teamwork, aiming also to shape corps members into responsible citizens capable of sound judgment. He reminded them of the restriction against partisan political activity during their service year, particularly warning against using social media to campaign for political parties or interests. “As corps members, you are not permitted to campaign for anyone. Don’t use your social media handle to promote any political parties or political interests,” he said.

Nafiu also disclosed that corps members are likely to be deployed by the Independent National Electoral Commission as ad hoc staff for the 2027 elections, describing it as a chance to support a credible, free and fair electoral process. He noted that while a single vote counts for one ballot, serving as electoral personnel enables thousands of Nigerians to exercise their right to vote. “Your ballot is just one, but doing that assignment will help hundreds and thousands to fulfil their constitutional mandate,” he said.

He urged corps members to remain neutral, disciplined and responsible throughout their service year, and encouraged them to make use of the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development programme to build additional capacity for the modern economy, noting the significant investment the country has made in their education.