Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has pledged to upgrade the permanent orientation camp in Ikare-Akoko.
This announcement was made during his address on Tuesday at the swearing-in ceremony of Batch ‘B’ (Stream 1) at the camp, located in Akoko North-East Local Government Area.
In a significant move, according to the state coordinator, Aiyedatiwa also announced the reinstatement of grants and stipends for corps members, a benefit that had been absent for several years.
The governor emphasized his administration’s commitment to the core objective of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme, which is to foster national unity.
He assured that the welfare and security of all corps members posted to Ondo State would be a top priority.
“I have received reports of the deteriorating and decrepit state of the infrastructure in the camp; I wish to assure you that we will move to maintain these facilities,” Aiyedatiwa stated. “As a responsible and responsive government, I say without equivocation that your welfare and security will be adequately taken care of during your service year.
Our government will continue to support the NYSC in the state at all times, ensuring you have a memorable service year.”
Aiyedatiwa also promised to improve the electricity supply in the camp and encouraged corps members to dedicate themselves to activities that would promote national development.
“It is noteworthy that your call-up to service is coming at a time in our national history when questions and concerns are being raised about the development and future of our youths.
This is a time for sober reflection on the evolution of our dear country, and your roles as catalysts for the much-needed national rebirth and reconstruction,” he added.
Hon. Saka Yusuf-Ogunleye, Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, encouraged corps members to see their posting to Ondo State as a divine opportunity.
He urged them to explore the state’s various opportunities, including those in the tourism sector.
In his welcome address, the NYSC State Coordinator, Mr. Sam Pepple, thanked the governor for being the first sitting governor to visit the camp in over 13 years.
People noted that 1,423 corps members, comprising 607 males and 816 females, had been registered for the current orientation course.
He also appealed to the governor to reinstate the payment of stipends for corps members in the state.
