The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General YD Ahmed, has called for concerted efforts to locate Yahaya Farouk, a corps member who recently went missing in Ikuru Town, Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers State. During his visit to the community, Brigadier General Ahmed urged residents, including local youths and elders, to collaborate with security agencies to expedite the search for the missing individual.
Appeal to the Community
Addressing community leaders and residents, Brigadier General Ahmed emphasized the shared responsibility of host communities in ensuring the safety and welfare of corps members posted to their domains. He also inspected the site of the incident, underscoring the importance of collaboration between the NYSC, local communities, and security agencies.
“The essence of my coming is to appeal to assist us in getting the corps member, who came for national service from another state,” Ahmed stated. “My administration will continue to advocate for adequate security and welfare of corps members at all times. It is also the responsibility of residents of Corps members’ host communities to provide security and welfare packages for corps members serving in their domain.”
Community Efforts and Commitment
In a meeting held during the visit, Etete Jerb Anthony, the Youth President, and Paul Friday, the Ward Secretary, detailed the community’s ongoing efforts to locate Farouk. The missing corps member was last seen at a Chinese mining company in the area. Both leaders assured the NYSC chief of their unwavering commitment to continue search and rescue operations.
“We have made significant efforts to locate Farouk and remain steadfast in our mission to find him,” Anthony said.
Advocating for Improved Security
Brigadier General Ahmed reiterated the NYSC’s dedication to securing better protection for corps members nationwide. The visit comes amidst growing concerns about the safety of participants in the national service program, particularly in areas with security challenges.
The DG’s appeal aligns with the NYSC’s broader strategy to work closely with host communities and local authorities to create a safe environment for corps members.
A Call to Action
The disappearance of Yahaya Farouk highlights the vulnerabilities faced by young Nigerians participating in the mandatory national service program. The NYSC’s leadership has consistently emphasized the importance of collaboration between the scheme, host communities, and security agencies to ensure the welfare of corps members.
Residents of Ikuru Town and surrounding areas have been urged to provide any information that could assist in locating the missing corps member. Security agencies continue to work closely with the community to expedite the search.
Conclusion
The NYSC remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all its members. Brigadier General Ahmed’s visit underscores the urgency of the situation and the importance of collective action. As the search for Yahaya Farouk continues, the NYSC and its partners hope to resolve the case swiftly and ensure that corps members nationwide can serve in safety and peace.
