Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

General Information FAQs

What is the Peace Corps of Nigeria (PCN)? The Peace Corps of Nigeria (PCN) is a non-governmental, uniformed youth organization dedicated to nation-building, peace-building, and youth empowerment. Founded in 1998 by Dr. Dickson A.O. Akoh, the Corps focuses on training youth in discipline, leadership, and community service to foster national unity and development.

Is the Peace Corps of Nigeria a government agency? Currently, PCN is a legally registered non-governmental organization (NGO) recognized by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development and the Federal Ministry of Education. However, a Bill to establish the Nigerian Peace Corps as a government-statutory body has been passed by the House of Representatives and is currently awaiting final concurrence by the Senate and assent by the President.

What is the primary mission of the Corps? Our mission is to empower Nigerian youth and facilitate peace. We achieve this through:

  • Educational Institution Safety: Monitoring and maintaining peace in schools and colleges.

  • Neighborhood Watch: Providing community-based intelligence and surveillance to support conventional security agencies.

  • Youth Empowerment: engaging unemployed youth in productive activities to reduce crime and social vices.

Who is eligible to join? Membership is open to all Nigerian youths, regardless of their political status, social status, ethnicity, or religious affiliation.

  • Regular Members: Must be between 18–35 years old.

  • Volunteer Members: Open to employed professionals or retirees (no upper age limit).

  • Student Members: Open to students in secondary and tertiary institutions.

What are the academic requirements?

  • Regular & Volunteer Members: The minimum requirement is a Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) or its equivalent. However, we encourage graduates with higher degrees and track records of achievement to apply.

How do I apply for membership? You can pick up an application form at the Peace Corps of Nigeria Command office nearest to you or visit our national headquarters. Applicants must also be physically fit and free of any criminal conviction.

Do members receive a salary?

  • Regular Members: Yes, regular members are entitled to monthly stipends. These are paid jointly by the organization and the direct beneficiaries of their services (such as schools or private organizations where they are posted).

  • Volunteers: Volunteers do not receive a monthly salary but are paid honoraria when engaged as resource persons for programs. They also benefit from career exposure and networking opportunities.

Is there a cost for the uniform? Yes, accepted members are responsible for their kitting. Volunteers and regular members are entitled to uniforms and kits, which are part of the standard Corps identity.

Will I be posted to a different state?

  • Regular Members: May be posted to any state in the Federation where their services are needed.

  • Volunteers: Are generally not posted outside their state of residence or origin unless they specifically request it.

What is the status of the Peace Corps Bill? The Nigerian Peace Corps Establishment Bill was passed by the House of Representatives in February 2024. As of mid-2025, the Bill has passed the first reading in the Senate and is awaiting final concurrence (third reading) before being sent to the President for assent.

How is the organization funded? Since its inception, PCN has been a self-sustaining organization. We are funded through membership fees, camp fees, donations from local and international agencies, grants for specific projects, and subventions from government or private corporations.