The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has evacuated corps members from the violence-ridden communities of Yelwata and Daudu in Benue State to safer locations in the state capital, Makurdi, following a surge in insecurity and deadly confrontations in recent days.
NYSC State Coordinator, Mrs. Veronica Garba, confirmed the development on Wednesday, stating that the relocation was carried out in close collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force. She revealed that the corps members were moved to secure facilities, including family homes and NYSC association offices in Makurdi.
“All those who were evacuated are safe, accounted for, and receiving good care,” Mrs. Garba assured. “We understand the anxiety in times like this, but we want to reassure parents that their children are in safe hands. We also ask for continued prayers and spiritual support—it makes a difference.”
According to Hobnob News, Mrs. Garba attributed the swift and effective evacuation to the appointment of new security chiefs in the state—a development she welcomed as a step toward restoring peace in the troubled areas.
She also extended words of comfort to parents and guardians: “We appreciate the worry during such times, but we want to assure parents that their children are well cared for.”
The evacuation comes shortly after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit to Makurdi, during which he instructed security agencies to restore law and order in the crisis-affected communities and bring perpetrators of the violence to justice.
The NYSC reaffirmed its commitment to the safety of all corps members in the state and pledged to continue monitoring the security situation closely.
“We are giving utmost priority to the wellbeing of our members,” the NYSC said in a statement.
The situation in Benue remains tense, but the swift response by the NYSC and security agencies has been praised by community leaders and parents alike.
