The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has attributed the delays in mobilizing graduates for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to shortcomings within certain polytechnics and other tertiary institutions in Nigeria. Reports indicate that many Higher National Diploma (HND) graduates have been left in limbo, waiting for months or even years after finishing their studies to start their mandatory national service. This situation has caused frustration and uncertainty among the graduates, with some pointing to administrative challenges within their institutions as well as the restricted mobilization quotas set by the NYSC.

The NBTE Executive Secretary, Idris Bugaje, emphasized that the core of the problem lies in the institutions’ failure to adhere to established academic protocols and maintain accurate documentation of student records. These administrative errors and inefficiencies hinder the timely processing of graduates for the service. Dauda Baba-Halal, the NBTE NYSC Desk Officer, echoed Bugaje's concerns, highlighting that many institutions are not sufficiently enforcing necessary procedures to streamline the mobilization process, further exacerbating the delay.

This situation raises questions about the preparedness of polytechnics to manage their administrative functions effectively, which directly impacts the national service obligations of their graduates. The delays not only affect the graduates' opportunities for employment and further education but may also reflect on the reputation and operational integrity of these institutions. Addressing these administrative barriers is crucial for enhancing the mobilization process and ensuring that graduates fulfill their national duties in a timely manner.