…Orders camp upgrade
Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Governor Alex Otti has promised automatic employment for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members who distinguish themselves while serving in Abia State.
The Governor who made the pledge at the swearing-in ceremony of 2026 Batch ‘A’, Stream 1 corps members at the NYSC permanent orientation camp, Umunna, in Bende Local Government Area, also ordered immediate upgrade of the orientation camp.
Otti said Abia places premium on excellence and merit, urging corps members to be committed and outstanding in their places of primary assignment.
“Our eyes will be on you wherever you are posted, and those who acquit themselves creditably will be offered automatic employment in relevant public sector establishments,” he said.
He stressed that his administration prioritises competence over state of origin, noting that Abia is focused on attracting and retaining the best talents. According to him, the true wealth of any society lies in the quality of its human capital.
The governor recalled that Abia has a long tradition of employing exceptional corps members, citing the current Head of Service, Mr. Benson Ojeikere, who served in the state as a corps member, earned automatic employment, and rose through the ranks to become the state’s top civil servant despite being from Edo State.
Otti said the NYSC scheme was designed to expose young Nigerians to the country’s vast potential through service, adding that his administration is building systems and infrastructure that support young professionals and innovators. He urged corps members not to take the opportunity of serving in Abia for granted.
“You are certainly in the right place. Make the most of the opportunities the NYSC programme offers and refuse to entertain fear from any quarter,” he added.
The governor also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the NYSC scheme, directing the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, to commence Phase II upgrade of the orientation camp. He said the next phase would include completion of internal roads, upgrading of the pavilion with finished ceilings and fans, regrassing of the sports field, among other improvements.
Speaking earlier, Sir Ananaba, who also chairs the NYSC State Governing Board, congratulated the corps members and urged them to adhere strictly to camp rules and participate fully in the orientation course.
He noted that the Otti administration rewards hard work and excellence, particularly corps members who execute impactful community development projects. He thanked the governor for increasing corps members’ allowances and improving camp facilities.
In her address on behalf of the NYSC Director-General, the State Coordinator, Barr. Gladys Adama, described the orientation course as a critical foundation for a successful service year.
She said the programme covered skill acquisition, entrepreneurship development, physical training, lectures, social activities and sports, all aimed at instilling discipline, teamwork, adaptability and patriotism.
Adama commended Governor Otti for his unwavering support to the scheme, including camp rehabilitation, construction of internal roads, installation of 46 solar-powered street lights, improved feeding during orientation and increased state allowances.
Some corps members, speaking on behalf of the batch, expressed gratitude to the governor for his support and prayed for divine blessings upon him.
The oath of allegiance was administered by the Chief Judge of Abia State, Justice Lilian Agbai, represented by Justice C.E. Anyim.
A total of 1,820 corps members—804 males and 1,016 females—were sworn in at the ceremony, while the governor inspected a guard of honour mounted by the corps members.
