I speak from a place of intimate experience, backed by the grief and anguish of friends lost due to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme. The Nigerian government demands this service as a requirement for employment, even amidst the existing plights of the youths whom they purport to empower. My friends and I have witnessed the despair around us; friends falling sick, robbed, and getting kidnapped, dying on their way to camp, and grappling with depression over their year of 'service', unable to cope with the high cost of living. All these, for a pay that is pittance and far beneath the minimum wages globally.

The NYSC was initially designed as a tool for cultural integration. However, one might pose the question; isn't the three-week camp, stationed across various states, enough for cultural exchange? The persistence to extend this scheme to a strenuous whole year seems cruel, unfair and a complete waste of the youth's time.

If the scheme cannot be scrapped in its entirety, then we propose a significant reform. Reduce the length of service to the initial three-week camp. This amendment would not only grant youths their deserved freedom to explore career opportunities sooner, but it would also result in considerable savings for our nation’s budget.

This is not just a personal plea; it is a call to protect our young citizens from needless hardship and despair. We ask the Nigerian government to consider our plea and reform the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme or abolish it entirely. Your signature means a lot to the Nigerian youth; please sign this petition to help us effect this necessary change.