In a recent development, Brig. Gen. Yusha’u Ahmed, the Director General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), has offered assurance that the remaining eight prospective corps members and their driver, who were kidnapped in Zamfara State while en route to the orientation camp in Sokoto State, will soon be released from captivity.
This harrowing incident unfolded as 11 corps members and their driver embarked on a journey from Uyo, Akwa-Ibom State, to Sokoto, only to fall victim to kidnappers’ ambush on August 22.
Fortunately, three of the corps members managed to escape the ordeal, but the others, along with the driver, were abducted.
Speaking before the House of Representatives Committee on Youth to provide an update on the situation, Gen. Ahmed revealed that there is a concerted effort among security agencies to secure the swift release of the kidnapped corps members.
The NYSC DG also emphasized that his organization has been actively engaged in negotiations with the kidnappers and expressed optimism that the corps members would soon regain their freedom.
Gen. Ahmed further informed the committee that one of the abducted corps members, who had sustained injuries during the incident, has been released and is currently receiving medical attention.
He took the opportunity to advise all corps members to avoid nighttime travel to ensure their safety.
Additionally, the DG revealed that plans are in motion to increase the allowances of corps members, contingent on the federal government’s adjustment of the minimum wage.
He requested the cooperation of the National Assembly in supporting the NYSC Trust Fund, which would enable the organization to empower corps members beyond their mandatory one-year national service.
Chairman of the committee, Martins Esin, directed the NYSC management to visit the families of the abducted corps members within the next seven days to offer their support and empathy during this trying time.
While commending Gen. Ahmed for the steps taken so far, the committee chairman urged the NYSC to collaborate with other intelligence agencies to ensure the safety of its members nationwide. He also stressed the importance of providing rehabilitation for the prospective corps members once they are eventually released.
In a related development, Clement Jimboh, a committee member from Akwa Ibom State, called for the provision of dedicated buses to convey prospective corps members to the orientation camps, enhancing their safety during transit.
