DG NYSC Assures Corps Members of Safety After Storm Damage at Niger Camp
Oru Leonard
The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, has reassured corps members that their welfare, safety, and security remain the scheme’s top priority following damage caused by a late-night rainstorm at the Paiko Orientation Camp in Niger State.
Speaking during a visit to the 2026 Batch “A” Stream II corps members deployed to Niger State and those from the Federal Capital Territory undergoing orientation at the Paiko Camp, the DG said the NYSC leadership acted swiftly upon receiving reports of the incident.
General Nafiu disclosed that he was in Makurdi, Benue State, when news of the storm damage reached him, prompting an immediate response to assess the situation and initiate urgent repairs. He emphasized that while orientation camps are not designed for luxury, they must meet acceptable minimum standards for habitation.
He further assured the corps members that the NYSC is in active discussions with the Niger State Government to expedite repairs and upgrade the affected facilities, adding that no corps member would be left stranded.
The DG commended the discipline exhibited by the corps members, noting the absence of social media posts or images showing the damaged camp structures.
Reiterating the importance of the NYSC scheme, Nafiu urged participants to embrace unity and build lasting friendships that transcend ethnic and cultural differences. He also highlighted the significance of the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme, describing it as a vital tool for job creation and financial independence.
General Nafiu revealed that the 2026 Batch “A” Stream II corps members would be the first group to participate as ad-hoc staff in the 2027 general elections. He noted that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) would provide necessary training in due course, while cautioning them against engaging in partisan politics or electoral misconduct.
He also advised corps members to remain vigilant during the rainy season, warning of potential risks such as flooding and storms.
Earlier, the NYSC Coordinator in Niger State, Mrs. Martina Shuaibu Ibrahim, informed the DG that a total of 2,484 corps members—comprising 1,241 males and 1,243 females—had been registered for the orientation exercise, including those redeployed from the FCT.
The NYSC reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a safe and conducive environment for all corps members throughout their service year.
