By Ahmed Kaigama
Borno Government has assured members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) of adequate security during the 2027 general elections when they would be engaged as ad-hoc staff by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Gov. Babagana Zulum gave the assurance on Friday during the opening and swearing-in ceremony of the 2026 Batch ‘C’ Stream II orientation course at the NYSC Temporary Orientation Camp, in Maiduguri.
Zulum, represented by the Permanent Secretary, General Administration, Alhaji Garba Chibok, said the government would work closely with INEC, security agencies and other stakeholders to guarantee the safety of corps members before, during and after the elections.
He said adequate security would be provided at all Registration Area Centres (RACs), polling units and collation centres across the state’s 27 Local Government Areas.
The governor described corps members as critical stakeholders in Nigeria’s democratic process, urging them to remain neutral, apolitical and non-partisan while discharging their electoral responsibilities.
He warned them against allowing politicians or individuals to use them for selfish interests, stressing that their loyalty should be to the country and the Constitution.
“The credibility of our democracy rests, to a large extent, on your shoulders. Do not compromise the integrity of the electoral process,” he said.
Zulum recalled that corps members deployed to Borno distinguished themselves during the 2019 and 2023 general elections, expressing hope that the new batch would surpass the record.
He also cautioned them against spreading fake news, hate speech, inciting statements and defamatory publications capable of undermining peace and security.
The governor reiterated the government’s commitment to improving corps members’ welfare, including prompt payment of state allowances.
Earlier, Malam Nasir Bello, the NYSC State Coordinator disclosed that 1,447 corps members, comprising 663 males and 784 females, registered for the orientation exercise.
Bello said the three-week programme was designed to equip participants with leadership, social and practical skills for effective national service.
He urged them to participate actively in all camp activities, including paramilitary drills and Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development training.
The ceremony featured the administration of the oath of allegiance by a representative of the Borno Chief Judge.
