The Plateau State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Ishaku Musa, has urged young people in the state to shun criminal tendencies and resist being recruited for unlawful acts, warning that the consequences could be severe for both the individuals and the community.

Speaking in Jos to a group of youths in the state, the Commandant emphasised that insecurity in Plateau and Nigeria at large often thrives when idle or desperate young people become tools in the hands of criminal networks.

“Do not make yourself available for nefarious activities. Once you compromise your future for quick gains, you put your life, your family, and your society at risk,” he cautioned.

The event was part of the NSCDC’s efforts aimed at discouraging youth involvement in cultism, banditry, kidnapping, political thuggery, and cybercrime. According to data from the Plateau State Police Command, between January and June 2025, 137 cases of youth-related criminal offences were recorded in the state, with 63 percent linked to cult activities and armed robbery.

The NSCDC boss highlighted that criminal gangs in the state often target unemployed youths, offering them as little as ₦10,000 to act as informants or participate in violent activities. He stressed that such actions not only lead to arrests and possible jail terms but also destroy the perpetrators’ long-term prospects for education and employment.

He also revealed that the NSCDC in Plateau State had, in the first half of 2025, arrested 78 suspects most of them between the ages of 18 and 30 for offences including vandalism of public infrastructure, cattle rustling, and illegal mining. The Corps has since handed over 51 of these suspects to the police for prosecution, while others are facing charges in court.

“Security is everybody’s business. Parents, community leaders, and even friends must look out for warning signs and intervene early when young people begin to drift into bad company,” he added.

Participants were also given information on lawful ways to earn income, including vocational training opportunities available through the Plateau State Government and various non-governmental organisations.

The sensitisation programme will be extended to secondary schools and higher institutions in the coming weeks, with the NSCDC targeting at least 5,000 youths before the end of the year.