The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps, Olakunle Nafiu, has reassured corps members that their welfare, safety, and security remain a top priority for the scheme, following recent damage to facilities at the Niger State orientation camp.
Speaking during a visit to the NYSC camp in Paiko, Niger State, the DG addressed 2026 Batch A Stream II corps members, including those deployed to the Federal Capital Territory but posted to Niger for their orientation exercise.
General Nafiu said he was in Makurdi, Benue State, when he received reports of the destruction caused by a late night rainstorm at the camp. He explained that he immediately mobilised his team to assess the situation and initiate urgent repairs.
He acknowledged that while orientation camps are not designed for luxury, they must meet basic standards, assuring corps members that steps were already being taken to fix affected structures and improve facilities.
According to him, discussions are ongoing between the NYSC and the Niger State Government to fast track repairs and ensure corps members are not exposed to unsafe conditions.
The DG also commended corps members for their conduct, noting the absence of social media posts or images showing the damaged camp facilities, which he described as a sign of discipline and responsibility.
Beyond the incident, he used the opportunity to emphasise the core objective of the NYSC scheme, stating that it was established to promote national unity and integration among young Nigerians from diverse backgrounds.
He encouraged corps members to build lasting relationships during their service year and take full advantage of the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development programme, describing it as a pathway to self reliance and economic empowerment.
General Nafiu further disclosed that members of the 2026 Batch A Stream II would likely serve as ad hoc staff in the 2027 general elections, adding that the Independent National Electoral Commission would provide necessary training ahead of the exercise.
He, however, warned them to remain neutral and avoid any form of political involvement, stressing that the NYSC remains a non partisan institution.
The DG also advised corps members to be mindful of their environment, especially during the rainy season, which comes with risks such as flooding and severe weather conditions.
Earlier, the Niger State Coordinator of NYSC, Mrs Martina Shuaibu Ibrahim, disclosed that a total of 2,484 corps members were registered at the camp, comprising 1,241 males and 1,243 females, including those redeployed from the FCT.
She noted that the camp continues to operate at full capacity despite the recent challenges, with efforts underway to restore affected facilities.
