WELFARE, SAFETY SACROSANCT, SAYS NYSC DG AS HE VISITS STORM-DAMAGED PAJIKO CAMP
Oru Leonard
The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, has reaffirmed that the welfare, safety, and security of Corps Members remain paramount and will not be compromised under any circumstance.
General Nafiu gave the assurance while addressing 2026 Batch “A” Stream II Corps Members deployed to Niger State, as well as those posted to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) but undergoing their Orientation Course at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Paiko, Niger State.
The DG disclosed that he was in Makurdi, Benue State, when he received reports of damage caused by a late-night rainstorm at the Paiko Camp. He said he immediately mobilized his team and proceeded to the camp to conduct an on-the-spot assessment and initiate prompt remedial action.
According to him, while orientation camps are not designed for luxury, they must meet acceptable minimum standards that guarantee comfort and safety. He assured Corps Members that efforts were already underway, in collaboration with the Niger State Government, to repair damaged structures and upgrade facilities at the camp without delay.
He emphasized that no Corps Member would be left stranded, noting that the Scheme remains committed to ensuring a conducive environment for all participants throughout their service year.
General Nafiu also commended the Corps Members for their discipline and sense of responsibility, observing that there were no unauthorized social media posts or images circulating about the damaged facilities.
Highlighting the core objectives of the Scheme, the DG reiterated that the NYSC was established to promote national unity and integration. He encouraged Corps Members to build lasting friendships across ethnic and cultural lines, describing such bonds as one of the enduring legacies of national service.
He further sensitized them on the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme, describing it as a vital component of the service year. According to him, the initiative equips Corps Members with practical skills that can foster self-reliance, create employment opportunities, and serve as additional sources of income.
General Nafiu also informed the Corps Members that they would likely participate as ad-hoc staff in the 2027 general elections, adding that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) would provide the necessary training in due course. He, however, cautioned them against engaging in partisan politics, electoral malpractice, or any form of misconduct, stressing that the NYSC remains strictly non-partisan.
The DG further urged Corps Members to be vigilant, especially during the rainy season, and to take necessary precautions against potential hazards such as flooding and storms.
Earlier, the NYSC Coordinator in Niger State, Mrs. Martina Shuaibu Ibrahim, informed the Director-General that a total of 2,484 Corps Members—comprising 1,241 males and 1,243 females—had been registered for the Orientation Course. She noted that the figure includes Corps Members from the FCT temporarily relocated to the Niger Camp.
This is signed by Caroline Embu
Director, Information and Public Relations
