AFC Southwest Seeks NYSC Safety Review After Corps Members’ Abduction

Concern over female prospective corps members

AFC Southwest said the incident also raises specific welfare and security concerns for female prospective corps members who are frequently required to travel long distances to unfamiliar states.

The association noted that some graduates may have little or no support network at their destination or along the journey, leaving them particularly vulnerable when emergencies arise.

According to the group, the security arrangements surrounding mobilisation should take these realities into account rather than treating travel to orientation camps as entirely a private responsibility of prospective corps members.

The association maintained that the NYSC scheme continues to serve an important national purpose through integration, civic responsibility and service, but said its operational framework should evolve alongside Nigeria's changing security environment.

AFC seeks review of high-risk routes

As part of the proposed reforms, AFC Southwest asked the Federal Government and NYSC management to undertake a fresh assessment of travel routes and deployment locations considered particularly vulnerable to security threats.

The association also wants stronger coordination between NYSC and relevant security agencies during mobilisation periods.

It proposed safer transportation arrangements, improved emergency-response systems and alternatives to conventional deployment patterns where prevailing security conditions make particular journeys or postings unsuitable.

AFC Southwest said the objective should be to reduce avoidable exposure to danger without undermining the broader purpose of national service.

Families need verified information

The association also called for more structured communication with families of those affected by the reported abduction.

It said relatives should receive timely and verified information about rescue operations rather than being left to depend largely on unofficial updates, social media posts or conflicting accounts.

AFC Southwest argued that families should not be left to independently manage the consequences of an incident involving young Nigerians travelling pursuant to a federal national-service programme.

The organisation also urged authorities to investigate reports concerning alleged ransom demands and determine what support can lawfully be provided to affected families.

It did not present the alleged ransom reports as established facts.

Wider NYSC welfare questions

Beyond the immediate rescue operation, AFC Southwest said the incident should trigger a broader examination of the security and welfare framework surrounding both prospective and serving corps members.

The association said national service should continue to promote interaction and development, but must also operate within a system that protects the dignity and safety of participants.

It called on the Federal Government, Ministry of Youth Development, NYSC management and security agencies to respond with concrete measures rather than limiting intervention to statements of concern.

AFC Southwest said a credible response would include both the safe recovery of those still missing and preventive reforms capable of reducing similar risks for future batches.

The association expressed solidarity with affected families and said it remained hopeful that every person still unaccounted for would be safely reunited with relatives.

The statement was signed by Comrade Oyegoke Adenike, Coordinator of the Association of Female Comrades, Southwest Zone.