If you are a Nigerian graduate who wants to participate in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program, you may be wondering if your Bank Verification Number (BVN) name or date of birth will cause any problems with your registration or deployment. The answer is: it depends.
The BVN is a unique identification number that links your bank accounts and biometric data. It was introduced by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in 2014 to enhance security and prevent fraud in the banking system. The NYSC is a one-year mandatory service scheme for Nigerian graduates below the age of 30, aimed at fostering national unity and development.
The NYSC requires prospective corps members to register online with their personal and academic details, including their BVN. The BVN is used to verify the identity and eligibility of the applicants, as well as to facilitate the payment of their monthly allowance during the service year.
However, some applicants may face issues with their BVN name or date of birth during the NYSC registration or deployment process. This could happen for various reasons, such as:
- Typographical errors or discrepancies in the spelling or arrangement of names on the BVN, school certificates, or NYSC portal.
- Changes in marital status that affect the surname of female applicants.
- Differences in the date or format of birth on the BVN, school certificates, or NYSC portal.
- Loss or damage of the phone number or SIM card linked to the BVN.
These issues could lead to delays, rejection, or redeployment of applicants by the NYSC. Therefore, it is important to avoid them as much as possible. Here are some tips on how to do that:
- Before you register for the NYSC, check your BVN name and date of birth on the CBN website (https://bvnvalidation.nibss-plc.com.ng/) or by dialing *565*0# on your phone. Make sure they match with your school certificates and other official documents.
- If you notice any error or discrepancy in your BVN name or date of birth, contact your bank immediately and request for a correction. You may need to provide supporting documents such as your birth certificate, international passport, driver’s license, or marriage certificate (for married women).
- If you have changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or any other reason, update your bank records and obtain a new BVN slip with your new name. You may also need to change your name on your school certificates and other official documents.
- If you have lost or damaged your phone number or SIM card linked to your BVN, visit your bank and request for a replacement. You may need to provide proof of identity and ownership of the phone number or SIM card.
- During the NYSC online registration, fill in your details carefully and accurately. Use the same name and date of birth as on your BVN and school certificates. Avoid any spelling or arrangement mistakes. Cross-check your information before submitting it.
- After completing the NYSC online registration, print out your green card and call-up letter. Check them for any error or discrepancy in your name or date of birth. If you find any, report it to the NYSC officials at your orientation camp or local government area office.
- If you are deployed to a state that you are not comfortable with due to security, health, or personal reasons, you can apply for relocation on medical, marital, or security grounds. You will need to provide valid reasons and evidence for your request. However, note that relocation is not guaranteed and is subject to the discretion of the NYSC authorities.
By following these tips, you can avoid or resolve most of the issues that may arise with your BVN name or date of birth during the NYSC process. We wish you a successful and rewarding service year!
