NYSC DG Urges Corps Members to Embrace Patriotism and Cultural Respect in 2025 Service Year

In a recent address, the Director General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, has called on corps members to serve Nigeria with unwavering passion, loyalty, and a deep sense of nationalism. This message comes as part of ongoing efforts to instill core values in the youth during their mandatory national service, emphasizing the importance of patriotism and cultural respect among corps members.

Latest Update: NYSC Orientation Camp Address in Ebonyi State

As of August 18, 2025, Brigadier General Nafiu delivered this inspiring speech during his visit to the 2025 Batch 'B' Stream One corps members at the NYSC Ebonyi State Orientation Camp in Afikpo. With 959 corps members registered—474 males and 485 females—the DG highlighted how the service year should be viewed as a crucial investment in personal and national development. He urged participants to respect the cultural practices of their host communities once deployed to primary assignment locations, reminding them that harmonious integration fosters unity in Nigeria's diverse society.

The NYSC boss also encouraged corps members to actively engage in the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme. This initiative, designed to promote self-employment and financial independence, includes partnerships offering loans, business grants, and free start-up capital for qualified individuals. "Take advantage of the NYSC SAED programme to empower yourself and also cultivate the habit of saving for the rainy day," Nafiu advised, underscoring the long-term benefits of these opportunities.

Why Patriotism and Cultural Respect Matter for NYSC Corps Members

Patriotism in the NYSC context goes beyond mere participation—it's about contributing to Nigeria's growth with dedication and selflessness. Corps members are reminded that their actions during service can bridge ethnic and cultural divides, promoting national cohesion. Respecting host community traditions is equally vital, as it prevents conflicts and builds lasting relationships. No culture is superior, as the DG has previously noted in similar addresses, and embracing diversity strengthens the fabric of Nigerian society.

For those searching for "NYSC patriotism guidelines" or "cultural respect in national youth service," this call aligns with the scheme's foundational goals established since 1973. It encourages corps members to avoid regrets by making the most of their year, whether through community development projects or skill-building activities.