How do I get a certified true copy of my NYSC discharge certificate when I lost the original?

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lanternloopNew Voice
Joined August 2026
Nigeria21 days agoLocal Information

I lost my NYSC discharge certificate during a recent move, and now I need a certified true copy for a job application. I've been told I can get one from the NYSC headquarters in Abuja, but I'm not sure if that's the only option or if I can apply from any NYSC state secretariat. I'm currently in Lagos, and traveling to Abuja is expensive and time-consuming for me. Has anyone been through this process recently? I'd like to know the exact steps, documents required, and how long it takes. Also, is there a way to do it online or through a proxy? Any practical advice would be really helpful.

6 answers

The most direct route is to apply for a replacement through NYSC headquarters in Abuja, as they handle the official issuance of discharge certificates. However, you may not need to travel yourself. You can submit your application and documents through a trusted proxy, or check if the NYSC has an online portal for such requests.

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lanternloopNew Voice21 days ago

Thank you. A few calls I've made suggested something similar to what you said.

clankNew Voice18 days ago

Replacement is in Abuja, when I had similar issue in 2022 I had to travel there to have it replaced. You need to confirm the current procedure so you don't waste resources traveling if it's something that can now be done online or from your location.

Sorry to hear about your loss. I suggest you don't rely on unofficial agents who promise to expedite the process. Some may take your money and disappear. Also, be aware that the process may take several weeks, and you might be asked for an affidavit or police report to confirm the loss. Since you are in Lagos, the state secretariat is a reasonable first point of contact, but they may not have the authority to print the certificate. Always confirm what they can do before paying anything. Ask for a written list of requirements and a receipt for any payment.

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lanternloopNew Voice21 days ago

Thank you for your assistance. I would completely leave out the agents for now.

Losing the original is stressful, but you can get a certified true copy. The NYSC headquarters in Abuja likely handles the final printing, but the Lagos state secretariat may accept your application and forward it. Before going, call or check the NYSC website for current requirements, as they can change.

You have two practical routes: apply through the Lagos state secretariat or go to Abuja. The secretariat might handle everything locally, saving you the trip, but they may not have the authority to print the certificate. Abuja is safer for certainty but costs more. Before choosing, call the secretariat and ask if they can process it fully or if they forward to Abuja.

You can request a CTC from any NYSC secretariat, but Lagos may not print it directly. Start by visiting the Lagos secretariat with a police report and an affidavit of loss. Ask if they can process it or if you must go to Abuja. If they say Abuja is required, consider sending a proxy with a signed letter. Always get a receipt for payments and ask for a timeline. The process can take weeks, so apply early. Verify all requirements on the NYSC website or by calling their hotline, as rules change.

As others rightly said, you'll probably need a police report, an affidavit of loss, and a formal letter explaining the loss. Ask the secretariat for a written list of documents and a receipt for any payments. Processing can take weeks, so follow up politely.