NYSC mobilisation 2026 will prioritise safety, integrity, and transparency, the scheme’s Director-General, Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, has said. Speaking at the 2026 Batch A Pre-Mobilisation Workshop in Abuja, Nafiu warned that deployment must align with security conditions and government policies, with corps members’ welfare and dignity being non-negotiable.
“Deployment decisions should be guided by current security conditions, existing government policies, and the principles of equity, fairness and transparency,” he said, stressing that any mobilisation process endangering corps members undermines national service.
He described mobilisation as the “heartbeat” of the scheme, noting that a smooth, well-managed process ensures an effective service year. Nafiu highlighted challenges across the mobilisation chain, including violations by Corps Producing Institutions (CPIs), unqualified graduate uploads, inconsistent records, data discrepancies, and weak verification systems.
“These practices undermine credibility and pose operational and reputational risks,” he said, urging heads of institutions to enforce oversight and train desk officers continuously. Nafiu also flagged internal NYSC gaps, including inconsistent guideline application, inter-departmental coordination lapses, delays, and undue human interference in automated processes.
On technology, he acknowledged progress in digital mobilisation but noted obstacles like poor data quality, limited technical skills, and resistance to automation. “Technology should serve as an enabler of service delivery, not a source of frustration,” he said, calling for regular audits, minimal human intervention, and continuous capacity building.
Nafiu further stressed stakeholder coordination, urging stronger inter-agency collaboration, regular review meetings, and data-driven decision-making anchored on clear timelines and responsibilities. He called for a shift from routine compliance to a culture of service excellence, emphasising that the scheme’s credibility depends on the integrity of its mobilisation process.
Mrs. Racheal Idaewor, Director of Corps Mobilisation, described the workshop as vital for improving collaboration with CPIs and other stakeholders. She said effective use of ICT and accurate data management would streamline mobilisation and sustain public trust.
NYSC mobilisation 2026, she said, must be efficient, accountable, and people-focused, ensuring timely, transparent, and accurate deployment for all corps members.
