To the distinguished members of the National Assembly,
The esteemed leadership of the national association of Nigerian Students (NANS), and respected Stakeholders,
I am writing to bring to your attention, on the urgent need to review the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) age limit for prospective corps members (PCMs) who were impacted by the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent lengthy academic strikes in Nigeria.
As you are aware, the COVID-19 pandemic led to extended school closures and a prolonged period of stay-at-home orders across Nigeria in 2020. This was then followed by an 8-month strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), which resulted in Nigerian students losing nearly two full academic sessions.
This unprecedented disruption has had a significant impact on students, particularly those nearing the NYSC age limit of 30 years. Many students who were on track to graduate and enroll in the NYSC scheme prior to the pandemic and strikes are now at risk of exceeding the age limit through no fault of their own.
In light of this disheartening reality, I beseech the esteemed leadership of NANS to take proactive steps on meeting with relevant bodies to discuss on headways to addressing these, also the esteemed members of the National Assembly to as a matter of urgency, propose bills that will enhance the realization of this appeal, and to all other stakeholders of influence to urgently undertake a thorough review and deliberate on the proposal to extend the NYSC age limit for these adversely affected students.
However, affording these resilient individuals an expanded age limit, would ensure that they are not unjustly penalized for the circumstances beyond their control, thus enabling them to partake in the important NYSC program.
Nigeria\’s youth, the vanguards of our nation\’s future, represent an unparalleled asset to our great nation. It is our solemn duty to bestow upon them the much required support and opportunities they deserve, especially in the face of the extraordinary adversities they have encountered. I implore each of you, esteemed leaders, to seize this opportune moment and take decisive action to safeguard the futures of these Nigerian students, who are destined to contribute immeasurably to the development and progress of our beloved nation.
I express my heartfelt gratitude for the attention you have accorded to this urgent matter. I wholeheartedly welcome the prospect of engaging in further deliberations and discussions to substantiate this plea and explore potential avenues for its implementation.
With profound sincerity and unwavering resolve,
Fidelis Okpa
A concern Nigerian Stud ent
