The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, has charged members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to serve as agents of peace, unity, and national development wherever they are posted across the country.
Musa gave the charge on Monday at a Defence–Media Town Hall Engagement with members of the National Youths Service Corps (NYSC), at Kwara Orientation Camp, Ilorin.
The CDS was represented by Commander Godwin Egbunu, Staff Officer, Defence Media Operations, Defence Headquarters.
He said the engagement was organised to strengthen civil-military relations and promote national security awareness among Nigerian youths.
Musa said the engagement was part of efforts to deepen understanding between the Armed Forces and the civilian population, especially the youth who represent the country’s future leaders.
He said national security was a collective responsibility that demanded the active participation of every citizen, adding that corps members were strategically positioned to contribute to peacebuilding and national unity.
“Security is not the business of the military alone — it is everyone’s business.
“Your vigilance, patriotism, and responsible use of information can help prevent threats and sustain public confidence,” he said.
The Defence Chief urged corps members to be mindful of the growing challenge of misinformation and fake news, especially on social media, which he said often distorted military operations and created unnecessary panic.
“Be agents of truth, not conduits of falsehood. Verify every story before you share it. A single unverified post can damage national morale or endanger troops in the field,” he cautioned.
The CDS acknowledged the NYSC’s long-standing role in promoting national integration since its establishment in 1973, describing the scheme as one of the strongest pillars of unity in Nigeria’s modern history.
He called on corps members to use their Community Development Service (CDS) groups and social media platforms to promote unity, civic responsibility, and positive storytelling about Nigeria.
“You are the generation that can heal and unite this country. Through your service, discipline, and creativity, you can help build a peaceful and prosperous nation,” he added.
Musa also encouraged interested graduates to consider professional career opportunities in the Armed Forces through the Direct Short Service Commission and other corps of the military.
He reaffirmed the armed forces’ commitment to protecting lives and property across the country while sustaining partnerships that promote peace, stability, and youth empowerment.
The State Coordinator of NYSC, Mr Olaoluwa Onifade, described the Defence Headquarters’ town hall engagement with corps members as a morale-boosting initiative that strengthens national unity and patriotism.
Onifade said the presence of senior military officers at the camp was reassuring to corps members, adding that it restored confidence in the nation’s security system and motivated them to serve their fatherland without fear.
He noted that the interactive session helped corps members understand the discipline and dedication of the Armed Forces, which could inspire some to pursue military careers after service.
He said the lecture had opened their minds to opportunities within the military, encouraging them to embrace positive values and avoid unproductive ventures.
According to him, such direct engagement builds trust between the youth and the military.
The coordinator appealed to the Defence Headquarters to sustain the initiative across all NYSC orientation camps nationwide, emphasising that it helps correct negative narratives shaped by misinformation on social media.
He said face-to-face interactions with credible officers promote national pride, hard work and discipline among young Nigerians, which are vital for peace and development.
Onifade reaffirmed NYSC’s commitment to nurturing patriotic and disciplined graduates.
A corps member, Yusuf Abdullazeez, lauded the Defence Headquarters and other security agencies for assuring corps members of safety during their service year in Kwara.
He said the lectures on security and misinformation had boosted his confidence, noting that the presence of senior officers and the Commissioner of Police reaffirmed that the state remains peaceful and secure for corps members.
Abdullazeez thanked the CDS for the initiative, describing it as a great motivation and privilege.
Another corps member, Chizaram Iwunzei, said the Defence Headquarters’ engagement had inspired her to pursue a career in the military after her service year.
She explained that the lectures on patriotism, misinformation and security had changed her perception and strengthened her resolve to serve Nigeria with commitment.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the engagement featured a presentation on the activities of the armed forces, the need for responsible use of social media and the need for corps members to make positive contributions in their places of primary assignment.
Commander Egbunu and Maj. Ayomakun Omojokun, took turns to enlighten the corps members on personal security and how to choose a career in the military among other
