… Vows Safety and Swift Repairs
The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Olakunle Nafiu, has assured Corps Members that their welfare, safety, and security remain the scheme’s top priority and will not be compromised under any circumstance.
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 but undergoing orientation at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Paiko.
This was contained in a statement on Sunday, by Caroline Embu, Director of Information and Public Relations.
He disclosed that he was in Makurdi, Benue State, when he received reports of damage caused by late-night rainstorms at the Paiko camp.
The DG said he immediately mobilised his team and proceeded to the camp to assess the situation and initiate prompt remedial action.
While noting that orientation camps are not designed for luxury, the Nafiu stressed that they must meet minimum standards required for the comfort and safety of Corps Members.
He assured that discussions were already underway between the NYSC and the Niger State Government to fast-track repairs and upgrade affected facilities, adding that no Corps Member would be left stranded.
The NYSC boss also commended the discipline of the Corps Members, noting the absence of social media posts or images showing the damaged structures, which he described as a sign of maturity and responsibility.
He used the opportunity to reiterate the core objective of the NYSC scheme, describing it as a vital platform for promoting national unity and integration among Nigeria’s diverse population.
He encouraged Corps Members to build lasting friendships and networks beyond their service year.
Highlighting the importance of the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme, Nafiu urged participants to take advantage of the initiative, noting that it provides practical skills capable of creating employment opportunities and additional income streams.
The DG further revealed that the 2026 Batch “A” Stream II Corps Members would be the first set to serve as ad-hoc staff in the 2027 general elections.
According to him, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) would provide the necessary training ahead of the exercise.
He, however, cautioned them against involvement in partisan politics, electoral violence, and other malpractices, emphasizing that the NYSC remains a non-partisan organisation.
General Nafiu also advised Corps Members to prioritise their personal safety, particularly during the rainy season, warning of potential risks such as storms and flooding.
Earlier, the NYSC Coordinator in Niger State, 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 visit underscores the NYSC’s commitment to maintaining conducive conditions for Corps Members while advancing its mandate of national development and unity.