The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) is a one-year mandatory service program for Nigerian graduates who are below the age of 30.
The aim of the program is to foster national unity, integration and development among the youths. The NYSC involves three phases: orientation, primary assignment and passing out.
Many graduates look forward to the NYSC as an opportunity to explore new places, learn new skills, network with people and contribute to the society.
However, some may wonder if they can participate in the NYSC twice, either for personal or professional reasons. For example, some may want to change their state of deployment, get a better placement, or repeat the experience.
Can You Serve In the NYSC Program Twice?
The answer to this question is NO. According to the NYSC Act of 1973, Section 2, Subsection 1:
“Subject to the provisions of this Act, every Nigerian shall:
(a) as from the commencement of this Act, be under an obligation to make himself available for service for a continuous period of one year from the day he is called upon to do so; or
(b) if he is at the commencement of this Act undergoing any course of training in any institution of higher learning within or outside Nigeria, be under an obligation to make himself available for service in pursuance of this Act as from the date he completes such course of training.”
This means that once you have completed your NYSC, you cannot do it again. Doing so would be illegal and punishable by law. The NYSC Act also states that anyone who fails to report for service or who absconds from service shall be guilty of an offence and liable on conviction to a fine of N2,000 or imprisonment for a term of 12 months or both.
Therefore, if you are thinking of participating in the NYSC twice, you should drop that idea and focus on other ways to improve yourself and your career.
There are many opportunities and challenges that await you after your service year. You can pursue further education, start a business, apply for jobs, volunteer for causes, travel the world, etc. The choice is yours.
Remember that the NYSC is not an end in itself, but a means to an end. It is a platform for you to serve your country and prepare yourself for the future. Make the best use of it while it lasts and move on to greater things afterwards.
