NYSC DG Seeks Increased Support for Corps Members in Rivers State

The Director General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, has called on the Rivers State Government to provide additional support for the Scheme, particularly in enhancing the infrastructure at the NYSC Orientation Camp in the state.

Brig. Gen. Nafiu made the appeal during an advocacy visit to the Sole Administrator of the State, Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (rtd.), at the Government House in Port Harcourt.

While expressing gratitude for the notable support the Scheme has received from the state government, Nafiu highlighted the urgent need for expanded hostel accommodation at the Orientation Camp, citing the increasing number of Corps Members deployed to the state.

“We mobilize an average of about 400,000 Corps Members nationwide annually. Naturally, this has led to an increase in the number of Corps Members posted to each state, including Rivers.”

“This growth necessitates an upgrade in camp facilities, especially hostel accommodation, to make the camp safe and conducive for the three-week Orientation Exercise.”

He described the Orientation Camp as a critical part of the NYSC experience, being the first point of contact for Corps Members and a space where they are prepared for the task of national service and nation-building.

Despite the accommodation challenges, the NYSC DG praised the State Government for providing what he called the most modern and spacious Orientation Camp auditorium he has seen across the country.

“I’ve visited almost all the Orientation Camps across Nigeria, and I must say the auditorium here in Rivers State is the most sizeable and modern I’ve come across. We truly appreciate the state government’s commitment,” he stated.

He also noted that the Corps Members currently undergoing Orientation in the state were in high spirits and eager to contribute meaningfully to the development of Rivers State.

In his response, Vice Admiral Ibas reaffirmed the Rivers State Government’s readiness to support the NYSC.

He pledged to look into the requests presented by the Director General, particularly the need for additional hostel space, and assured that the government would assist in augmenting the feeding and stipends of Corps Members during the Orientation Exercise.

“We acknowledge the importance of the NYSC in national development and are committed to supporting your efforts here in Rivers,” he said.

The visit marks part of the NYSC Director General’s ongoing nationwide engagement with state governments to strengthen the Scheme’s operations and ensure a better experience for Corps Members across the country.