Francis Sardauna in Katsina
Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has directed the state Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport to carry out assessment of structural defects at the state’s National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp for renovation after 25 years.
Radda, who gave the directive Friday at the swearing-in of the 2026 Batch ‘B’ Stream II corps members deployed to the state, reiterated his readiness to improve the camp’s facilities and enhance the welfare of corps members.
He said after the “comprehensive assessment” of the dilapidated camp facilities, the state government will commence what he termed holistic renovation and remodeling of the camp for improved orientation activities.
Represented by the state Head of Service, Mr Falalu Bawale, Radda said: “The Government of Katsina State has taken note of the present challenges in the orientation camp and we are committed to fixing them within a reasonable time.
“The Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport has been directed to carry out a comprehensive assessment of the structural defects of the orientation facilities for a holistic renovation and remodeling.”
Radda, however, assured corps members deployed in the state of government’s support throughout their service year and called on them to justify the confidence reposed in them.
He reminded the corps members that the service year offers a unique opportunity to contribute to nation-building while acquiring valuable experience that would prepare them for future leadership roles.
Earlier, the state NYSC Coordinator, Mr Evans Okwor, appealed to the Governor Radda-led government to intervene in the dilapidating state of facilities at the orientation camp.
According to him, the male hostel in the permanent orientation camp has not undergone any renovation since they were constructed about 25 years ago.
He explained that although the female hostel received partial renovation in 2020, the male hostel and other camp facilities require comprehensive rehabilitation and upgrading to provide a conducive environment for corps members.
He, however, commended Governor Radda’s administration for approving additional funds to improve the feeding of corps members during the orientation exercise.
He added that the NYSC would reciprocate the government’s support by deploying corps members’ skills and expertise to improve healthcare services in rural communities and provide academic support in post-primary institutions.