The Director‑General (DG) of the National Youth Service Corps, Olakunle Nafiu, has assured prospective Corps Members that their welfare, safety and security remain top priorities, as he directed immediate repairs at the Paiko Orientation Camp in Niger State following rainstorm damage and disclosed plans for their participation as ad‑hoc staff in the 2027 general elections.
Addressing the 2026 Batch “A” Stream II Corps Members deployed to Niger State and the Federal Capital Territory at the camp, Nafiu said, “Your welfare, safety and security are our priority and will never be compromised.”
He explained that discussions were already ongoing with the Niger State Government to repair and upgrade facilities at the Paiko Orientation Camp, which was recently affected by a rainstorm.
According to him, while luxury is not expected in orientation camps, minimum standards must be maintained to ensure Corps Members are not left stranded.
Nafiu commended the discipline of the Corps Members, noting that none had posted images of the damaged structures on social media. He reminded them of the essence of the NYSC scheme, saying, “This programme was intentionally designed to foster national cohesion amidst Nigeria’s diversities. Build friendships here and treasure them beyond the camp and service year.”
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The DG also sensitized the Corps Members on the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme, describing it as an opportunity to acquire essential skills that could create jobs or serve as extra income after service.
He disclosed that the 2026 Batch “A” Stream II Corps Members would be the first set to participate in the 2027 general elections as ad‑hoc staff, with training to be provided by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Nafiu further cautioned Corps Members against partisanship, thuggery and other electoral vices, stressing, “NYSC is non‑partisan. As members of the Corps, you are not permitted to participate in politics.” He advised them to take safety measures during the rainy season, warning of possible storms, floods and other dangers.
The NYSC Niger State Coordinator, Mrs. Martina Ibrahim, informed the DG that a total of 2,484 Corps Members, comprising 1,241 males and 1,243 females, were registered for the orientation course, including those relocated from the FCT.
With 2,484 Corps Members set for deployment after repairs at Paiko, the DG maintained that discipline, skills training, and non-partisanship remain central to the scheme ahead of the 2027 polls.
Patience Ikuomola
