The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) on Friday, appealed to the Edo government to urgently address issues of infrastructural and welfare gaps affecting the scheme.
The state’s Coordinator of NYSC, Dr Frances Ben-Ushie, made the appeal as 1,422 corps members were sworn in for the 2025 Batch ‘C’ Orientation Course in the state.
The Chief Judge of the state, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, represented by Justice Eboreime Vestee, administered the oath of allegiance for the corps members.
While welcoming the new corps members comprising 689 males and 753 females, Ben-Ushie said that the growing population of participants was putting pressure on the camp’s limited facilities.
She listed a number of challenges requiring urgent government intervention, stressing that these constraints affects the smooth implementation of NYSC programmes in the state.
“The existing hostel facilities for corps members and camp officials are insufficient to accommodate the growing number of course participants.
“We also face inadequate workshops and laboratories for SAED training, high electricity tariffs and generator running costs, an incomplete access gate,” she said.
She also added that the lack of operational vehicles for monitoring corps members, as well as the absence of annual state subvention as stipulated in the NYSC Act were among the challenges facing the scheme..
She appealed to Gov. Monday Okpebholo, to support the scheme in addressing these concerns.
According to him, inadequate feeding augmentation and non-payment of state allowances have led to a mass relocation by corps members, to other states.
Meanwhile, the coordinator thanked the state government’s continued provision of buses for post-camp deployment.
He encouraged the corps members to embrace discipline, teamwork, and personal development during the orientation course.
“Gentlemen corps members, this marks the beginning of a new chapter in your lives; discipline remains pivotal to the successful realisation of NYSC’s objectives.
“Embrace self-discipline and make the most of the opportunities available during your service year,” she said.
In his address, Gov. Okpebholo assured the corps members of the state government’s commitment to their security and welfare.
Represented by the State’s Commissioner for Youth Affairs, Charity Amayaenvbo, the governor said that the welfare, safety and security of the corps members is of great importance to the state.
“From the moment you arrived in Edo State, we have worked diligently to ensure that the environment is conducive for you to thrive, contribute meaningfully, and enjoy a fulfilling service year,” he said.
Okpebholo highlighted the opportunities available to corps members across key sectors such as agriculture, technology, education, entrepreneurship and tourism.
“Edo State holds immense potentials for personal and professional growth.
“I encourage you to tap into the opportunities available and approach your service year with innovation, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence.
“This is your chance not only to give back to society but also to leave a legacy that inspires others,” he said.
He consequently, declared the orientation course open.
