Grace Omachoko
During a recent visit to the Ekiti State orientation camp, Mrs. Abiodun Olubukola, the Director of the South-West Area of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), lauded the academic achievements of Corps members while emphasizing the importance of safety.
In her speech, Mrs. Abiodun expressed gratitude to the parents and God for the Corps members’ accomplishments. She highlighted the need for safety awareness, particularly during late-night travels and in unfamiliar environments, citing statistics that 90% of Corps member fatalities are related to road transport.
Transitioning to matters of Primary Place of Assignment (PPA), Mrs. Abiodun emphasized the critical role Corps members would play in addressing educational needs in Ekiti State. She urged them to uphold discipline and serve as positive role models in the classroom.
Regarding practical concerns beyond camp life, Mrs. Abiodun encouraged Corps members to take advantage of healthcare opportunities through the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and participate actively in the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) program, advising caution in entering business ventures while advocating for a skill-based approach to entrepreneurship.
Prior to Mrs. Abiodun’s address, State Coordinator Alhaji Riko Shuaibu praised her leadership and recounted their shared history. He outlined infrastructural needs in the camp and expressed gratitude for Mrs. Abiodun’s support in addressing them.
Among the 1408 Corps members present, comprising 786 men and 662 women, Mrs. Abiodun emphasized the importance of addressing pressing needs for their comfort. Urgently, she called for improved facilities, including a new clinic, upgraded mattresses, and better seating arrangements. She also highlighted infrastructural challenges such as toilet maintenance and bathroom construction.
Expressing gratitude for the Governor’s responsiveness to their requests, Alhaji Riko disclosed ongoing efforts to address these concerns and called for continued collaboration.
The meeting was attended by dignitaries including the State Coordinator, Camp Director, Camp Commandant, Resident Officer, and camp officials alongside Corps members of the Ekiti orientation camp.
