Gov Bago performs groundbreaking for permanent NYSC camp in Niger

Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of a permanent National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp, describing the project as a major investment in youth development and national service.

Speaking during the ceremony, Governor Bago said the project reflects his administration’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for corps members and promoting programmes that empower young people.

He disclosed that the first phase of the project will be developed on an eight-hectare site, while an additional 20 hectares have been earmarked for agricultural activities to support the NYSC farm programme.

The governor assured that adequate funding had already been provided for the project, expressing confidence that the completed facility would rank among the best NYSC orientation camps in the country.

“This project is a demonstration of our commitment to youth development. Funds have been made available, and we are determined to build the best NYSC permanent orientation camp in Nigeria,” Bago said.

Director-General of the NYSC, Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, commended the Niger State Government for the initiative, describing the project as a reflection of the shared commitment of both the state government and the NYSC to youth development, national unity and nation-building.

According to him, the new orientation camp will significantly improve the welfare, comfort and safety of corps members, while also serving as a centre for youth empowerment and community development.

Nafiu expressed appreciation to Governor Bago for his unwavering support for the NYSC and for committing the necessary resources to the construction of the permanent camp.

He noted that Niger State has become the fourth state, after Lagos, Adamawa and Gombe, to embark on the construction of a modern permanent orientation camp for corps members.

The NYSC Director-General also urged the contractor handling the project to deliver it within the stipulated timeframe without compromising quality.

Also speaking, Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Abdulmalik Sarkin-Daji, commended the governor for initiating the project and pledged the legislature’s full support to ensure its successful completion.

The contractor, Mr. Stephen Adigun, said the proposed facility is designed to accommodate about 5,000 corps members, with room for future expansion.

He explained that the camp would feature 41 hostel blocks, each comprising 20 rooms with six beds per room.

Other facilities to be provided include a 3,000-seat multipurpose hall, administrative offices, sports and recreational facilities, a perimeter fence, a clinic and other supporting infrastructure.

Adigun assured that the project would be executed with professionalism and completed within the agreed timeline.

In separate remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Niger State Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Dr. Nuhu Ngaski, and the Emir of Agaie, Alhaji Yusuf Nuhu, who spoke on behalf of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, lauded the governor for the initiative.

They pledged their continued support for programmes aimed at improving the welfare of residents and advancing youth development across the state.