The Niger State Government has pledged to complete a new permanent National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Orientation Camp within the next 12 months as part of efforts to improve facilities for corps members deployed to the state.
Governor Mohammed Umar Bago made the commitment during the ground-breaking ceremony for the first phase of the ultramodern orientation camp in Paiko, saying funds for the project had already been appropriated.
According to the governor, the completed facility will rank among the best orientation camps in Nigeria and provide a more conducive environment for the training of corps members.
“By the grace of God, in 12 months from today, we will return to commission the first phase of this camp. The funds have been provided, so there should be no delays,” Bago said.
Speaking at the event, NYSC Director-General, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, described the project as a major milestone for the Scheme and commended the Niger State Government for its sustained commitment to youth development and national integration.
He noted that the new facility would replace one of the oldest and most challenging orientation camps in the country with modern, secure and learner-friendly infrastructure.
Nafiu said the orientation camp remains the foundation of the NYSC programme, where young graduates from different parts of Nigeria begin building relationships that foster unity, discipline and patriotism.
The Director-General also applauded Niger State for joining Lagos, Adamawa and Gombe states in providing new orientation camp facilities, assuring that the infrastructure would enhance the welfare, safety and morale of corps members during orientation.
He further appreciated the traditional institutions and people of Paiko for their support and encouraged corps members to uphold the ideals of discipline, tolerance and national service throughout their service year.
