NYSC to Issue Discharge Certificates to Abducted Prospective Corps Members

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has confirmed the rescue of the final prospective Corps member, Solomon Daniel Bassey, who was among eight individuals abducted on August 17, 2023, in Zamfara State while en route to the Sokoto State Orientation Camp.

Speaking at a press conference on Friday, NYSC Director General Brig. Gen. Yusha’u Ahmed announced that all rescued Corps members would be issued discharge certificates, marking the conclusion of their service without requiring further mobilization.

The abduction occurred on August 17, 2023, when the group was traveling in an Akwa Ibom Transport Company (AKTC) bus from Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, to Sokoto State for their mandatory one-year national service. Their vehicle was intercepted by suspected terrorists in Zamfara State. While three of the 11 Corps members managed to escape, eight were taken hostage along with the bus driver.

Through a coordinated effort by the Nigerian Army, Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies, the NYSC was able to secure the release of the abducted individuals. Brig. Gen. Ahmed detailed the timeline of the rescues, which culminated in Bassey’s release on August 22, 2024.

“No ransom was paid for their release,” Brig. Gen. Ahmed emphasized, dispelling media reports that suggested otherwise. He also clarified that no state government contributed financially to the rescue efforts.

The Director General reiterated NYSC’s commitment to the welfare and security of all Corps members, stressing that the organization, alongside security agencies and traditional rulers, worked tirelessly to secure the release of the abducted individuals, who were moved between various locations during their captivity.

The issuance of discharge certificates to the rescued Corps members underscores the NYSC’s recognition of the traumatic experiences they endured, acknowledging that their service journey will not continue under traditional circumstances.