The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has responded to concerns raised by some Prospective Corps Members (PCMs) who were unable to register for the 2024 Batch ‘B’ Stream 2 Orientation Course due to late arrival at their respective Orientation Camps. This issue, which sparked considerable outcry on social media, has prompted the NYSC to clarify its policies and offer some reassurances to those affected.In a statement signed by Caroline Embu, the Acting Director of Information and Public Relations, the NYSC reaffirmed that its guidelines regarding mobilization and orientation are explicitly outlined in the NYSC Act, as well as in the Call-Up Letters issued to all PCMs. The organization noted that the Call-Up Letters for this batch clearly stated that registration would close at midnight on Thursday, August 29, 2024. This was followed by the Swearing-In Ceremony on Friday, August 30, 2024, for all those who completed the registration process on time.Recognizing that some PCMs faced challenges in arriving before the deadline, the NYSC extended the registration deadline to midnight on Friday, August 30, 2024. This extension was ordered by the Director General after receiving reports of late arrivals at certain Orientation Camps.Despite this extended grace period, videos of PCMs expressing frustration and calling for further extensions circulated online. To address these concerns, the Director General visited several camps to assess the situation firsthand. During his visit, he expressed sympathy for the affected PCMs but emphasized that maintaining discipline and adherence to NYSC Bye-laws is crucial for the program's operations. He reiterated that resumption dates and deadlines are clearly communicated in advance, and it is essential for all participants to comply with these guidelines.As a gesture of goodwill, the Director General directed that those PCMs who missed the registration be provided with accommodation and meals before their departure from the camps. He also assured them that efforts would be made to accommodate their participation in the 2024 Batch ‘C’ mobilization.In closing, the NYSC Management extended its sympathy to the affected PCMs but reminded the public that the Scheme operates within the framework of its enabling Act and Bye-laws, which are designed to ensure the smooth execution of its programs.For future batches, the NYSC urges all PCMs to adhere strictly to the dates and instructions provided to avoid such inconveniences.
