By Yusuf Kabiru David
The arrival of the final batch of 2026 National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members in Borno State offers another opportunity to challenge long-held perceptions about the state and encourage a deeper understanding of its people, hospitality and commitment to national unity.
For many young Nigerians posted to Borno from different parts of the country, the initial news of their deployment came with mixed feelings. Concerns about insecurity, distance from home and uncertainty about their safety left some prospective corps members frightened and uncomfortable with the idea of serving in the state.
However, upon arriving at the orientation camp, many began to discover that some of the frightening stories they had heard were exaggerated or did not reflect their immediate experiences. Beyond the fears and negative perceptions, they encountered an environment where young Nigerians from different cultural, ethnic and religious backgrounds could interact, learn and build friendships.
Today, many of these corps members are embracing the opportunity to serve their fatherland in Borno State without regret. Their experiences remind us that national unity cannot be achieved through assumptions and stereotypes but through meaningful interaction, mutual understanding and shared responsibility.
The Borno State Government also deserves recognition for its efforts towards improving corps members’ welfare. Such interventions send an encouraging message that the state values the contributions of young Nigerians who have accepted the responsibility of serving within its borders.
Nevertheless, there is still room for improvement.
As the final batch of 2026 corps members begins its service year, the state government should sustain and strengthen its support for their welfare. Timely payment of any state-approved corps members’ allowances, accessible healthcare, safe accommodation, transportation support and a responsive welfare system should remain important priorities.
These young Nigerians are not merely visitors; they are contributors to community development, education, healthcare, administration and other sectors where their services are needed. Their welfare should therefore be treated as an investment in the future of the state and the country.
The Borno State Government should also consider extending a welcoming hand to corps members who may initially struggle with the transition, particularly those coming from distant states and unfamiliar environments. A supportive atmosphere can help them settle down, perform their duties effectively and develop a lasting connection with the communities they serve.
At the same time, corps members must recognise that the present economic realities in Nigeria demand financial discipline, patience and personal responsibility. While government support is important, corps members should also learn to manage their resources wisely, respect local customs, obey security guidelines and contribute positively to their host communities.
The NYSC scheme was established to promote national integration, and Borno State presents an important opportunity to demonstrate what that vision means in practice. When young people from different backgrounds live, work and serve together, they become ambassadors of unity and understanding.
Ultimately, serving in Borno should not be defined only by the fears that preceded deployment but also by the experiences, friendships, opportunities and contributions that follow.
The final batch of 2026 corps members deserves a welcoming environment, adequate welfare support and the assurance that their sacrifices are valued. Equally, they have a responsibility to make their service year meaningful.
Borno State should be more than a place of primary assignment; it should be a place where national unity is experienced, hospitality is demonstrated and young Nigerians are given reasons to serve with confidence and pride.
– Yusuf Kabiru David
Davidwisdom508@gmail.com:08140991717
