NYSC urges Akwa Ibom to fast-track camp reconstruction

The Akwa Ibom State Coordinator of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Mr Sam Pepple, has appealed to the state government to expedite the reconstruction of the permanent orientation camp in Nsit Atai.

Pepple appealed on Friday during the swearing-in ceremony for the NYSC 2025 Batch ‘C’ corps members at the Ikot Itie Udung camp.

He said the camp’s aging infrastructure required urgent attention to guarantee a safe and conducive environment for corps members.

Pepple thanked Governor Umo Eno for his commitment to rebuilding the camp but urged him to accelerate the project, noting that several buildings were already leaking.

“At this juncture, I wish to once again thank the Governor for standing by us and for his promise of rebuilding this orientation camp.

“Let me also appeal to the Governor to track this project fast, because even as we are in the camp, old and dilapidated buildings are all leaking. Please, Your Excellency, we need you in this emergency project,” he said.

He disclosed that 1,646 corps members, 723 males and 923 women, were registered for the 2025 Batch ‘C’ service year.

The coordinator encouraged the corps members to participate actively in all camp activities, including primary assignment, community development service, and the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme.

Pepple also appreciated the state government, collaborating agencies, partners, and camp officials for their continued support of the NYSC scheme.

In his remarks, Governor Umo Eno, represented by the Director of Administration and Supplies at the Ministry of Youth Development, Mr Anthony Isonguyoh, assured corps members that reconstruction of the camp would begin soon.

He added that the state had commenced the payment of a N20,000 monthly allowance to corps members serving in Akwa Ibom.

“I am aware of the current state of infrastructure at your orientation camp,” Eno said. “As a responsive government, we have approved the comprehensive rebuilding of this entire camp for comfort and productivity. Work will commence very shortly.”

He urged corps members to maintain a positive work ethic, embrace innovation, and remain open to learning throughout their service year.

The ceremony featured the administration of the oath of allegiance by the Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, Justice Ekaette Obot, represented by Justice Edem Akpan.