By ZAKAA LAZARUS
The Director General of the National Youth Service Corps, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, has commended the Abia State Government for its immense support to the Scheme in the state.
The DG gave the commendation during a courtesy visit to the Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, at Umunu, Umuehim in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.
This was contained in a statement signed by Caroline Embu, Director, Information and Public Relations, NYSC.
General Nafiu particularly expressed appreciation for the renovation work carried out on the NYSC Orientation Camp, the provision of a new Secretariat complex to enhance operations, and the upward review of Corps Members’ allowance by the state government.
He described Abia as a peaceful and friendly state, noting that the population of female Corps Members in the state is higher than that of males. He further disclosed that Abia is one of the few states with Corps Members serving in every local government area.
The DG appealed for the implementation of the recently reviewed allowance for Corps Members and also requested the commencement of the second phase of the renovation of the Orientation Camp.
In his remarks, Governor Otti congratulated General Nafiu on his appointment as NYSC Director General.
He said his displeasure at the deplorable state of facilities at the Orientation Camp during his visit in 2023 informed his decision to approve the overhaul of the facilities.
The Governor stated that phase one of the renovation had been completed and that he had directed that phase two should commence immediately.
Governor Otti expressed satisfaction with the 8,890 Corps Members currently serving in the state and requested the deployment of more to Abia.
He emphasized that Abia is home not only to Corps Members but to everyone who comes to the state.
Citing an example, he said the Head of Service, Mr. Benson Ojeikere, came to Abia as a Corps Member and was given automatic employment into the civil service for distinguishing himself during his service year.
