Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers, has given the green light for the renovation and upgrade of facilities at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Orientation Camp in the state.
The approval was granted during a working visit by the NYSC Director-General, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, to Government House, Port Harcourt on Tuesday.
Governor Fubara noted that Rivers State’s peaceful and hospitable environment has made it a preferred destination for many corps members.
Fubara directed the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Benino Anabraba, to assess the required improvements at the camp and submit a report for immediate action.
He also pledged to provide office space for the newly established NYSC regional office and indicated that the State Secretariat might be relocated or remodeled to meet modern standards.
Brigadier General Nafiu said Rivers currently hosts 2,586 corps members for the 2025 Batch C orientation programme, making it the fourth most preferred state for deployment.
He added that 8,349 indigenes of Rivers State are serving in other states.
The NYSC DG emphasised the value of corps members’ service to national development.
He noted that if their contributions were calculated at full salary rates, the state saves up to N15 billion annually.
He thanked Governor Fubara for supporting NYSC initiatives, including providing land for the State Coordinator’s residence and improving camp infrastructure.
Highlighting the growth of the NYSC since its inception in 1973/74, when just 2,764 corps members participated, Nafiu noted that the scheme now accommodates over 400,000 participants, with more than 650,000 graduates eligible for mobilisation in 2026.
He stressed that expansion and modernization of facilities are essential to accommodate the growing numbers nationwide.
