NYSC henna warning advises female corps members to avoid mehndi before camp to prevent biometric registration delays

The National Youth Service Corps on Friday advised prospective female corps members across Nigeria to avoid applying henna on their fingers before reporting to orientation camps, warning that the practice could disrupt biometric fingerprint registration during documentation.

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In a notice published on the scheme’s verified X account, the NYSC explained that biometric fingerprint capture remains a compulsory stage of the orientation camp registration process and that henna designs often interfere with accurate fingerprint scanning.

The NYSC henna warning stated that unclear fingerprints caused by the cosmetic application could result in delays during registration and, in severe cases, prevent affected corps members from completing camp documentation procedures.

“Female prospective corps members are advised to avoid applying henna on their fingers before going to camp, as it will affect their biometric fingerprint capture during registration,” the statement read.

The scheme further stressed the importance of proper preparation ahead of mobilisation, urging prospective corps members to ensure their fingers remain clean and free from substances that could obstruct biometric verification.

“Do not apply henna (mehndi) on your fingers before travelling to camp. Ensure your fingerprints are clean and clear at all times,” the advisory added.

“Your smooth registration depends on clear fingerprints. Avoid henna, avoid delay.”

The directive comes as thousands of Nigerian graduates prepare to begin the mandatory one-year national service programme, with orientation camps expected to receive participants from different parts of the country.

Biometric registration has become a crucial component of the NYSC process in recent years, helping authorities strengthen identity verification, streamline documentation and reduce cases of impersonation within the scheme.

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The advisory has already sparked conversations online, particularly among prospective female corps members accustomed to using decorative henna for cultural and fashion purposes before major events.