The Abia State Government has received commendation from the Director General of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, *Brigadier-General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu*, for creating a safe and enabling environment for corps members in the state.
The DG and his delegation were received in Umuahia by the state government, where he praised Abia’s efforts in making the state peaceful and welcoming for National Youth Service Corps members.
According to the government, *over 8,800 corps members are currently serving across all 17 Local Government Areas of Abia*, with a notably higher number of female participants. The NYSC leadership affirmed that Abia has become “a place of peace and opportunity” for young Nigerians serving their fatherland.
Speaking after the visit, the state government expressed delight at the commendation, noting that the safety and welfare of corps members remain a top priority.
A major highlight of the visit was the ongoing renovation works at the *NYSC Orientation Camp in Umunna, Bende LGA*. Government officials also disclosed that the *second phase of renovations at the camp will begin immediately* to further upgrade facilities for incoming corps members.
In the health sector, the state said it is recording gains through NYSC collaboration. *More than 340 NYSC healthcare professionals are currently serving in various primary healthcare facilities across Abia*. The government reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening primary healthcare and leveraging corps doctors, nurses, and other medical personnel to bridge service gaps.
“We are encouraged by the DG’s commendation and the NYSC’s affirmation of Abia as a safe state. We will continue to invest in the welfare of corps members and ensure Abia remains a model of safety, service, and progress,” the statement read.
The NYSC delegation’s visit comes at a time when the scheme is pushing for improved orientation camp facilities and better welfare packages for corps members nationwide.
With the planned Phase 2 upgrade at Umunna Camp and continued support for corps health workers, stakeholders say Abia is positioning itself as one of the most corps member-friendly states in the country.
