By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
The Niger State Government has pledged to complete the first phase of a new permanent National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Orientation Camp in Paiko 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 groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the ultramodern orientation camp, assuring that funds for the project had already been appropriated and that the contractor would face no delays in execution.
The governor thanked the Paiko community for donating eight hectares of land for the project, describing the planned facility as one that would rank among the best orientation camps in Nigeria upon completion.
“By the grace of God, in 12 months from today, we will return here to commission the first phase of this camp,” Bago said, stressing that the project had received full financial backing from his administration.
Speaking at the event, NYSC Director-General, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, described the groundbreaking as a reflection of Niger State’s unwavering commitment to youth development, national unity and the objectives of the NYSC Scheme.
He commended the state government for its sustained support for corps members and the Scheme, noting that the new camp would replace one of the oldest and most challenging orientation facilities in the country.
According to him, the new camp is designed to provide modern, secure and conducive facilities that will enhance the orientation and training of corps members before their deployment to places of primary assignment.
General Nafiu said the NYSC had remained a vital institution for national integration since its establishment in 1973, with orientation camps serving as the foundation for instilling discipline, patriotism and unity among Nigerian youths.
He noted that the camp experience enables young graduates from diverse ethnic, religious and cultural backgrounds to build lasting relationships while preparing for national service.
The NYSC Director-General assured that the Scheme would make optimal use of the new facilities to improve the comfort, safety and morale of corps members.
He also praised Niger State for joining Lagos, Adamawa and Gombe states in investing in new orientation camp infrastructure for the benefit of corps members.
General Nafiu expressed appreciation to the traditional institutions, the people of Paiko and the Niger State Government for their continued hospitality and support, while urging corps members to embrace the opportunities provided by the NYSC and uphold the values of discipline, tolerance, patriotism and selfless service.
