NYSC DG Assures Corps Members of Safety After Storm Damage in Niger Camp
By Alabidun Shuaib AbdulRahman
The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, has assured corps members that their welfare, safety and security remain a top priority of the scheme and would not be compromised under any circumstance.
Nafiu gave the assurance while addressing the 2026 Batch “A” Stream II corps members deployed to Niger State, as well as some posted to the Federal Capital Territory but undergoing their orientation course at the NYSC camp in Paiko, Niger State.
The DG disclosed that he was in Makurdi, Benue State, when he received reports of the destruction caused by a late-night rainstorm at the Paiko orientation camp.
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According to him, he immediately swung into action by convening his team and visiting the camp to personally assess the extent of the damage and initiate urgent repairs.
“I was in Makurdi when I received news of the damage caused by the rainstorm here in Paiko. I immediately convened my team and came down to assess the situation and ensure that prompt action is taken,” Nafiu said.
He noted that although orientation camps were not meant to provide luxury, they must meet minimum standards that guarantee the comfort and safety of corps members.
“While we do not expect luxury in our camps, there are minimum standards that must be maintained. I want to assure you that you will not be left stranded at any point,” he added.
The NYSC boss further revealed that discussions were ongoing with the Niger State Government to expedite repairs of the damaged structures and upgrade facilities in the camp.
He commended the corps members for their discipline, particularly for refraining from sharing images of the damaged facilities on social media.
“I must commend you for your discipline. Despite the situation, there were no social media posts or pictures of the damaged structures. That speaks volumes about your sense of responsibility,” he said.
Nafiu also used the opportunity to sensitise the corps members on the objectives of the NYSC scheme, stressing that it was established to promote national unity and integration.
“The scheme was deliberately designed to foster national cohesion. I encourage you to build friendships across ethnic and cultural lines and sustain them beyond your service year,” he said.
On the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development programme, the DG described it as a critical component of the service year, capable of equipping corps members with practical skills for self-reliance.
“SAED is an added advantage. The skills you acquire can serve as a source of livelihood, especially for those who may not secure jobs after service, and even as supplementary income for those who are employed,” he explained.
He also disclosed that members of the 2026 Batch “A” Stream II would be the first set of corps members to participate in the 2027 general elections as ad hoc staff.
“The Independent National Electoral Commission will provide you with the necessary training at the appropriate time. However, you must remain non-partisan and avoid any form of political involvement,” Nafiu warned.
He cautioned them against engaging in electoral malpractice, including thuggery and partisanship, reiterating that the NYSC remained a non-partisan organisation.
The DG further advised corps members to prioritise their personal safety, especially during the rainy season, which is often accompanied by storms and flooding.
“I urge you to be safety conscious at all times. The rainy season comes with its own risks, including storms and floods. Please take necessary precautions,” he said.
Earlier, the NYSC Niger State Coordinator, Mrs Martina Shuaibu Ibrahim, informed the DG that a total of 2,484 corps members had been registered for the orientation course.
She said the figure comprised 1,241 males and 1,243 females, including those from the FCT who were relocated to the Niger camp for the exercise.
