16 prospective NYSC corps members from Adeyemi Federal University of Education, Ondo, lost their lives while traveling to the Gombe orientation camp. The incident has sent shockwaves across the nation, prompting an outpouring of grief from family, friends, and concerned citizens.
This heartbreaking event has reignited debates about the safety and relevance of the National Youth Service Corps NYSC scheme. Many Nigerians are questioning whether it is appropriate to continue posting corps members to states far from their place of residence, given the recurring accidents and risks associated with long-distance travel. Some have even called for a complete overhaul or scrapping of the scheme to prevent further loss of lives.
It was just yesterday that I made a tweet about this and idiots were weeping in my mentions.
Now, you all can see.
NYSC IS NOT WORTH YOUR LIFE!
Defer it, and keep deferring it, until you get a nearby state. https://t.co/MLDLPYOn3a— Máfejópamí (@VillageParrot) November 19, 2025
An incident like always leaves me questioning the essence of NYSC programme. Yes, I understand that the original intent is to help Nigerian youth to explore other culture and appreciate beauty of other region of the country.
But, no programme is worth the lives of our youth.…— Colin (@SolPlayeer) November 20, 2025
It is important to note that this is not the first tragedy of its kind. Over the years, there have been multiple reports of accidents and fatalities involving corps members traveling to orientation camps or service locations. These incidents underscore the need for urgent reforms to ensure the safety and well-being of young Nigerians participating in the program.
The question now looms: should the NYSC scheme be restructured to prioritize safety, or is it time to consider alternative ways of fostering national unity without putting lives at risk? The nation waits anxiously for answers and concrete actions from the authorities.
