With insecurity and youth unemployment continuing to strain Nigeria’s stability, Senator Ikpea Joseph Igiagbe (Edo Central) says the country must rethink how it recruits security personnel and engages its young population.
His solution: transform the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) into a primary gateway for military and paramilitary enlistment.
Addressing journalists on Thursday, Igiagbe said he is finalising a bill that will give NYSC graduates priority access to jobs in the armed forces and security agencies. He described the initiative as a cost-effective strategy that would provide the government with a ready pipeline of trained, disciplined young Nigerians.
“Security agencies spend millions on recruitment. This bill reduces those costs and ensures Nigeria has a database of competent and willing youth who can serve immediately,” he said.
The senator argued that regionalising recruitment through the NYSC would also boost community security, noting that officers deployed to their home regions tend to be more committed and responsive. “A local officer is far less likely to allow harm to come to his or her own people,” he said.
Beyond its security value, Igiagbe framed the proposal as a key step toward combating youth unemployment and restoring public confidence in law enforcement. He said linking NYSC service to guaranteed employment opportunities would build trust between citizens and security agencies and improve rapid response to threats.
“This is about giving our youth purpose. When young people have meaningful work and a role in safeguarding their communities, the entire nation benefits,” he noted.
Igiagbe also called for greater citizen participation in nation-building, stressing that the government alone cannot resolve Nigeria’s challenges. “We all have a duty to build safer, stronger communities. Government cannot do everything,” he said.
While acknowledging ongoing security and economic challenges, he commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for efforts to stabilise the economy, pointing to a gradual easing in the prices of essential commodities. “Security is fundamental to economic growth, and by the grace of God, we are seeing improvements,” he added.
The senator further warned against politicising insecurity ahead of the 2027 elections, noting that some actors may exploit national challenges to score political points. “I am confident that the measures being implemented will improve security and reduce fear,” he said.
Reflecting on his record as a public servant, Igiagbe emphasised prudence and accountability as the hallmarks of his leadership. “As council chairman, we never owed salaries despite limited resources. These principles guide me in every office I hold,” he said.
His NYSC recruitment bill is expected to spark debate in the National Assembly as lawmakers weigh the potential impact of linking national youth service directly to national security.