In Nigeria, thousands of Higher National Diploma graduates from various polytechnics are facing significant delays in their mobilization for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), with some waiting months or even years after graduation. This prolonged situation is largely attributed to administrative challenges within their institutions and a limited allocation of mobilization quotas by the NYSC. Many graduates are expressing concern that the delays are preventing them from securing employment and hindering career advancements.

The delays have sparked frustration among the affected graduates, who initially speculated that the issue was related to admission documentation processed through the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). However, JAMB has clarified its non-involvement in HND admissions, redirecting the focus onto internal processes within the institutions and the mobilization framework used by the NYSC. The communication gap and lack of clarity on the mobilization process has contributed to the graduates’ concern, as they continue to wait for resolutions.

The implications of these delays are serious, as many graduates find themselves unable to progress in their careers or further their education due to the absence of the NYSC certification, which is often required for most job applications in Nigeria. As they express their frustrations, calls for institutional reforms and a reevaluation of the mobilization process are gaining momentum to prevent future cohorts from experiencing similar setbacks.