National Youth Service Corps
In short
A mandatory one-year programme for Nigerian university and polytechnic graduates designed to promote national unity and reconstruction. It was established in 1973 following the Nigerian Civil War.
In plain words
After finishing higher education, young Nigerians must serve the country for one year. This helps different ethnic groups work together and helps develop rural areas. It is a requirement for many jobs and further studies.
A simple example
A graduate from a university in Lagos might be posted to a village in Kano to teach or work in a local clinic. This allows them to experience a different part of the country.
Why it matters
It helps bridge the gap between different tribes and cultures in Nigeria. It also provides much-needed labour and skills to remote communities that lack professionals.
Easy to mix up
It is often confused with military conscription, but it is a civil service programme rather than compulsory military training.