The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has handed down stiff sanctions to 18 corps members of the 2025 Batch B in Sokoto State for various acts of indiscipline, ordering some to repeat and others to extend their service year.
Briefing journalists in Sokoto on Thursday, the State Coordinator, Mr Tyoyer Gabriel Ter, said the disciplinary action was taken after a review of the conduct of corps members during the service year.
According to him, the offences bordered on failure to report for service after documentation, persistent absenteeism and truancy at their Places of Primary Assignment (PPAs).
“These infractions are contrary to the provisions of the NYSC Act and the code of conduct guiding the scheme,” Ter stated, adding that the management would not condone laxity.
He disclosed that out of the 18 affected corps members, nine have had their service period extended for between 10 and 75 days depending on the gravity of their violations.
The coordinator further revealed that the remaining nine, who absconded from service entirely, have been directed to repeat the entire one-year service.
“The law is clear. Anyone who absconds from service must repeat the service year in full. We are only implementing the guidelines to ensure discipline and accountability,” he explained.
While decrying some of the challenges faced by corps members, the NYSC boss commended those who initiated and executed meaningful Community Development Service (CDS) projects across the state.
In a bid to encourage diligence, he urged serving corps members to emulate Miss Oladele Ruth Kehinde from Kogi State, who impacted her PPA through a community service project at the Federal Government College, Sokoto.
He equally commended Hadi Yahaya Ozovehe, also from Kogi State, who received commendation and recommendation from the Local Government Chairman for his service delivery.
“Some of them were enthusiastic in carrying out meaningful projects. Some brought proposals, and these proposals were approved. We encourage more of that spirit,” he said.
He, however, appealed to well-meaning Nigerians, corporate organisations and community leaders to support corps members in executing CDS projects, noting that such interventions go a long way in impacting host communities and leaving lasting legacies.