Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, the Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), has called on certification officers to develop essential digital skills to enhance their operational efficiency and service delivery. This directive was issued during the 2026 NYSC Certification Officers' Workshop held in Abuja, where Nafiu emphasized the need for vigilance against threats such as certificate forgery and operational discrepancies.

Nafiu highlighted that the NYSC is on the verge of implementing an electronic records management system, which will be crucial for the modernization of certificate issuance processes. He stressed that certification officers must adapt to the evolving technological landscape to meet the growing demands for faster and more transparent services.

The Director-General pointed out that maintaining high standards of accountability is vital for the NYSC to uphold public trust. He stated, "We must remain vigilant against challenges such as certificate forgery and racketeering, discrepancies in records, delays in certificate issuance, and the growing demand for faster, more transparent and accessible services."

Represented by the Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, Mrs. Grace Ogbuogebe, Nafiu urged the officers to take concrete steps towards transitioning from a paper-based system to an Electronic Documents and Records Management System (EDRMS). He explained that this integrated digital repository would facilitate quicker access to documentation, bolster accountability, and protect vital records from deterioration and unauthorized alterations.

In his address, Nafiu reiterated the importance of coordinated efforts to preserve the authenticity and reliability of the NYSC certification framework. He affirmed that the scheme would continually evaluate its protocols and enhance operational safeguards against counterfeiting and other illicit activities.

The NYSC's commitment to improving its service delivery and operational effectiveness comes at a time when the demand for credible and authentic certificates is on the rise. By embracing digital transformation, the NYSC aims to reinforce its reputation and ensure that it meets the expectations of the nation and its youth.