The National Youth Service Corps has announced that it is ready to formally include corps members with disabilities in the national service programme.
The Director General of NYSC, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, made this known during the 2026 Pre Orientation Workshop held in Jos, Plateau State.
Speaking at the event, the NYSC boss said the scheme is committed to fairness, dignity, and equal opportunity for all Nigerian graduates, including those living with disabilities.
According to him, the inclusion of corps members with disabilities is not just a policy idea, but a responsibility the scheme is prepared to implement.
He said, “NYSC is ready to adopt the inclusion of corps members with disabilities in line with global best practices and national expectations.”
Brigadier General Nafiu explained that the scheme wants to ensure that corps members with disabilities are properly supported from orientation camp through the entire service year.
He stressed that no eligible Nigerian graduate should feel excluded or disadvantaged during national service because of physical challenges.
The Director General described the orientation course as the foundation of the NYSC programme, noting that it is where discipline, unity, and national integration are built.
He said, “The orientation programme is the bedrock of the NYSC scheme. It is where we prepare our young graduates mentally and physically for national service and foster unity among them.”
According to him, the pre orientation workshop was organised to allow NYSC officials from across the country to review plans, share experiences, and fine tune strategies ahead of the next orientation exercise.
He added that the scheme is working to improve camp facilities, coordination among officials, and support systems to ensure that corps members with disabilities are properly catered for during service.
Brigadier General Nafiu assured that NYSC remains committed to continuous improvement and reform, adding that the scheme must evolve to reflect the realities of Nigerian society.
He said the inclusion initiative is part of efforts to strengthen the credibility of the NYSC programme and ensure that it truly serves all Nigerian youths.
With this announcement, NYSC has reassured prospective corps members with disabilities that they are welcome, valued, and fully considered in the national service programme.
