OTTI PLEDGES MORE INVESTMENT IN NYSC CAMP INFRASTRUCTURE, URGES CORPS MEMBERS TO EMBRACE ENTREPRENEURSHIP.
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members through sustained investment in infrastructure and youth empowerment initiatives across the state.
The governor made the pledge on Monday while officially declaring open the 2026 Batch “B” Stream I Orientation Course at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Umunna, Bende Local Government Area.
The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, assured the corps members that his administration would continue to create an enabling environment that promotes innovation, entrepreneurship, and personal development.
He disclosed that the state government would soon commence the second phase of the rehabilitation and retrofitting of the NYSC Orientation Camp, which will include the completion of hostel facilities for corps members and staff, as well as the construction of a separate parade ground and other critical infrastructure.
According to him, the projects are aimed at providing a more conducive environment for corps members to learn, develop their skills, and maximize the opportunities available during their service year.
“Our administration is committed to providing an enabling environment that fosters innovation, entrepreneurship, and social mobility. We have invested significantly in critical infrastructure in this camp and will soon begin the second phase of the rehabilitation programme to improve facilities for corps members and staff,” the governor stated.
Dr. Otti described participation in the National Youth Service Corps Scheme as a demonstration of patriotism, dedication, and commitment to national unity and development.
He urged the corps members to take the orientation programme seriously, noting that the training would equip them with the skills, knowledge, and mindset required to excel in their Places of Primary Assignment and future careers.
The governor commended the NYSC management for incorporating Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) into the orientation programme, describing the initiative as a strategic tool for reducing unemployment and promoting self-reliance among young graduates.
He advised the corps members to make prudent use of their monthly allowances, including the Federal Government’s ₦77,000 stipend and additional support from the state government and employers, by cultivating a savings culture and exploring business opportunities available through NYSC entrepreneurship programmes.
Otti further encouraged them to embrace innovation, engage meaningfully with their host communities, and contribute positively to grassroots development.
“As you interact with your host communities, identify challenges and develop creative solutions that will leave lasting impacts. Let your service year be a period of meaningful contribution to society,” he charged.
He expressed appreciation to local government councils that have commenced the construction of corps lodges in their respective areas and urged others yet to do so to prioritize the provision of decent accommodation for corps members.
Earlier in his address, the Chairman of the NYSC Governing Board in Abia State and Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Sports and Youth Development, Mrs. Jane Igwe, praised Governor Otti for his unwavering support for the NYSC scheme.
Ananaba noted that the administration’s interventions, including the renovation of corps hostels, improvement of the internal road network within the camp, and provision of a new state secretariat for the NYSC, have greatly enhanced the welfare of corps members and staff.
He described the governor’s presence at the ceremony as a clear demonstration of his commitment to youth development and national service.
Also speaking, the NYSC State Coordinator, Mr. Yunusa Tanimu, commended the Abia State Government for its continuous support and welfare interventions for corps members.
He disclosed that the orientation course, which commenced on June 10, had witnessed smooth registration, documentation, and training activities, with corps members demonstrating discipline and enthusiasm.
Tanimu appealed to local government authorities and employers of labour to provide adequate accommodation and welfare support for corps members posted to their areas, stressing that such measures would encourage greater dedication and productivity.
He further assured the governor that the NYSC would continue to support the developmental agenda of the state by deploying corps members to critical sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, and community development.
The highlight of the ceremony was the administration of the Oath of Allegiance on the corps members by the Chief Judge of Abia State, Justice Lilian Abai, officially ushering them into the mandatory one-year national service.
The event attracted top government officials, traditional rulers, security chiefs, community leaders, members of the State Executive Council, and other stakeholders who gathered to welcome the young graduates to Abia State.
