By Nkechi Eze
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has said efforts are underway to improve the welfare of corps members in orientation camps, following the Federal Government’s approval of an increase in the feeding budget for the orientation course.
The Director-General of the NYSC, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, disclosed this while interacting with members of the 2026 Batch C Stream One at the Cross River State Orientation Camp in Obubra.
According to an official statement signed by Caroline Embu, Director, Information and Public Relations, Nafiu said the Budget Office was aware of the upward review of the feeding budget, which is expected to take effect in 2027.
The development is part of efforts to improve the welfare of corps members during the orientation exercise, while the scheme is also pursuing better camp facilities through engagement with relevant stakeholders.
Nafiu said efforts would be intensified to engage stakeholders on the provision of additional facilities and the overhaul of existing infrastructure at the Obubra Orientation Camp.
He urged corps members to manage their finances prudently, avoid ostentatious lifestyles and cultivate a savings culture as they begin their service year.
The NYSC Director-General also encouraged them to acquire practical skills that would complement their academic qualifications and improve their prospects after service.
“Learn something that will be useful to you, learn cosmetology, learn how to tie gele and others,” he advised.
On security, Nafiu cautioned corps members against taking unnecessary risks while travelling, advising them to suspend their journeys when it approaches 6 p.m. and continue the following day.
He warned them against sleeping in public places, particularly filling stations, noting that such locations could expose them to security threats.
“Go to military barracks, police barracks, DSS establishments, and call the NYSC line,” he said, urging corps members to seek assistance from security agencies when necessary.
The Director-General commended the resilience and determination of Nigerian youths in responding to the call to national service.
Earlier, the NYSC Cross River State Coordinator, Mrs Adejoke Oyenuga, described Nafiu’s visit as a demonstration of his commitment to the welfare of corps members.
Oyenuga disclosed that 1,064 corps members had been registered at the orientation camp, adding that they had adapted to the regimented camp environment.
