The Reform NYSC Coalition, a non-partisan advocacy group focused on improving the welfare of corps members, upgrading orientation camp infrastructure and strengthening the National Youth Service Corps as a platform for national unity and development, has welcomed Katsina State Governor Dikko Umaru Radda’s decision to renovate facilities at the state’s NYSC camp.
The coalition, which engages governments, NYSC management and other stakeholders on policy reforms, camp standards and corps members’ welfare, described the governor’s move as an example other states could follow.
In a statement signed by Comrade Francis Nwogu on behalf of the group and released on Wednesday, the coalition said improved camp facilities would enhance orientation activities, address health and safety concerns and strengthen the scheme’s role in promoting interaction among Nigerians from different ethnic, cultural and regional backgrounds.
The group said some orientation camps across the country continued to face challenges including overcrowding, sanitation and inadequate amenities.
“We commend His Excellency, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, for listening to the long-standing calls for improved infrastructure at the NYSC camp in Katsina. This decision demonstrates leadership that understands the critical role of the National Youth Service Corps in nation-building,” the statement said.
“We urge all governors across the 36 states and the FCT to emulate this example by upgrading orientation camps in their domains. Corps members deserve decent accommodation, functional facilities, and a conducive environment that reflects the dignity of national service.”
The Reform NYSC Coalition also highlighted the contributions of corps members to education, healthcare and community development, particularly in rural communities where, according to the group, there are shortages of some professionals.
It said sustained investment in camp infrastructure could help address health and welfare concerns, improve morale and make the one-year service more productive for corps members and their host communities.
According to the group, the NYSC remains an important platform for promoting tolerance and peaceful coexistence.
It said better living and training conditions at orientation camps would complement the support provided by host states and encourage greater commitment from the large numbers of graduates mobilised for national service each year.
The coalition said the NYSC could not achieve these objectives alone and called on state governments to complement the efforts of the Federal Government.
“Governor Radda’s intervention is not just about buildings; it is about valuing the lives and service of thousands of young Nigerians who leave their homes every year to contribute to the development of host communities,” Comrade Nwogu stated.
“We call on the Nigerian Governors’ Forum and individual state executives to treat NYSC camps as priority infrastructure. A modern, well-maintained camp is a direct investment in national cohesion and human capital development.
“We appreciate the hospitality of the people of Katsina and the relatively peaceful environment in which the NYSC has operated. This partnership between state governments and the scheme must be strengthened through tangible infrastructural support,” the coalition added.
“Every state that upgrades its NYSC camp sends a clear message that it values the corps members who teach in its schools, serve in its health centres, and contribute to its local economy.
“We hope this becomes a nationwide standard rather than an isolated example.”
The Reform NYSC Coalition reaffirmed its commitment to constructive advocacy for continuous reform of the National Youth Service Corps, including better camp standards, improved welfare and stronger collaboration between the NYSC and state governments.
It also pledged to continue engaging relevant authorities until orientation camps across Nigeria meet acceptable standards of comfort, safety and functionality.
The coalition also applauded the Director-General of the NYSC, Brigadier-General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, for what it described as steady leadership and proactive engagement with state governments.
According to the group, his recent visit to Katsina, where he highlighted the environment in which NYSC activities are being carried out and the mobilisation of large numbers of graduates, reflected an administration focused on the welfare, security and successful deployment of corps members nationwide.
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