When it comes to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme in Nigeria, there are numerous terms and abbreviations you’ll encounter during your service year. Whether you’re a Prospective Corps Member (PCM) or already in service, knowing these terms is vital to fully understand the process and responsibilities. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the key NYSC terms every corps member should know:
1. NYSC:
The National Youth Service Corps is a scheme set up by the Nigerian government to involve Nigerian graduates in nation-building and development.
2. PCM (Prospective Corps Member):
This refers to individuals who are about to become corps members. They have been mobilized but have not yet been sworn in.
3. Green Card:
This is a colored printout paper generated after a PCM completes their registration online. The green card contains personal data, call-up number, and NYSC kit specifications.
4. Call-Up Letter:
After successful registration, the NYSC issues a call-up letter to every PCM. This letter provides details on where to report for service and gives a four-day notice to appear at the camp.
5. Corps Member:
A corps member is someone actively serving under the NYSC scheme. This status provides certain privileges, including federal government protection similar to other national corps like the police or military.
6. Corper:
A shortened form of “corps member.”
7. Allowee:
This refers to the monthly allowance given to every corps member. There are three types:
- State Government Allowee: Varies by state; some states offer additional allowances.
- Federal Government Allowee: A fixed amount of ₦33,000 paid monthly by the federal government.
- PPA Allowee: Allowance paid by the place of primary assignment (PPA) where corps members work.
8. LI or LGI (Local Government Inspector):
An NYSC officer responsible for overseeing corps members in a specific local government area.
9. AI (Area Inspector):
An NYSC officer in charge of corps members across multiple local government areas within a zone.
10. Book of Life:
This is an essential record kept at NYSC camps. Corps members must sign this book before leaving camp, or they may face severe penalties.
11. Double Up:
A military command used in camps, typically by soldiers, instructing corps members to move faster.
12. Light Out Hour:
This refers to the mandatory lights-off time in camp, typically at 10:00 PM. At this time, all corps members are expected to be in bed with no noise or light sources allowed.
13. Otondo:
A playful military term used to refer to inexperienced or lazy corps members. It’s often used humorously in camp.
14. Mami Market:
The designated market area within NYSC camps, where corps members can buy essential items and food.
15. PPA (Place of Primary Assignment):
This is where corps members are posted after camp for their primary service. PPAs could be schools, government offices, or private organizations.
16. CDS (Community Development Service):
Corps members are required to participate in community development projects to help improve the areas they are posted to.
17. CDS Card:
An official card where corps members document their attendance at weekly CDS meetings. The card must be signed by the LGI for verification.
18. PV (Payment Voucher):
A monthly clearance process corps members must complete to show they are still actively serving. Without signing the PV, corps members won’t receive their allowance.
19. CLO (Corps Liaison Officer):
The representative or head of corps members within a local government area. The CLO liaises between corps members and the NYSC officials.
20. Ghost Corpers:
These are individuals who fraudulently participate in the NYSC scheme through proxies and don’t actually report for service.
21. Magical Corpers:
A term for corps members who do not attend service activities but still receive all benefits as though they had served.
22. HSE (Health Safety Environment):
A professional certification course available to corps members during their service year.
23. NIM (National Institute of Management):
Another certification course offered to corps members by the NYSC.
24. Platoon:
In NYSC camps, all corps members are divided into groups known as platoons. These groups participate in camp activities and competitions.
25. Platoon Commander/Leader:
A corps member selected to lead their platoon in camp.
26. Platoon Officer:
An NYSC official assigned to supervise each platoon.
27. PMP (Project Management Professional):
A certification course available to corps members during the NYSC year.
28. POP (Passing Out Parade):
The official ceremony marking the completion of the NYSC service year.
29. Posting Letter:
This letter tells corps members where they have been posted for their primary assignment after camp.
30. SAED (Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development):
A government program designed to equip corps members with skills that will help them start their businesses after their service year.
Upcoming NYSC Batch C Stream 1 Registration
For those preparing for the next registration phase, Batch C Stream 1, be sure to stay updated on what’s required before registration starts. We’ll be sending more details soon on everything you need to know for a successful registration.
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