Abia pledges improved welfare for corps members

The Abia State government has unveiled a comprehensive package of welfare, infrastructure and entrepreneurship initiatives for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) during the swearing-in of Batch B Stream II corps members in 2026, according to official reports. Governor Alex Otti, who represented by Permanent Secretary Mrs Jane Igwe, emphasized that the welfare and security of the corps members are a top priority for the administration.

During the orientation course opening at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Bende Local Government Area, the governor highlighted significant advancements in road infrastructure, healthcare, education, technology and security in the state. He announced that the orientation camp would undergo internal road network reconstruction to address erosion challenges, alongside plans for officials' quarters renovation, camp clinic and kitchen rehabilitation, improved water supply, and installation of additional solar-powered streetlights.

Governor Otti urged the new graduates to actively participate in the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development programme, as the administration's investments in digital innovation, software engineering, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and the TechRise initiative aim to prepare youth for opportunities in the evolving global economy.

Additionally, he assured the corps members that the state would abolish discriminatory practices based on state of origin, guaranteeing equal opportunities for living, working and thriving in Abia after their service year.

Earlier, the Abia State NYSC Coordinator, Yunusa Tanimu, reported that the orientation exercise, which commenced on August 5, had successfully registered 1,526 corps members by the cut-off date. He praised Governor Alex Otti's ongoing support for the NYSC, including funding for camp feeding, approval for the second phase of camp renovation, and delivery of furniture for a new NYSC Secretariat in Umuahia.

Tanimu also encouraged local government councils, traditional rulers, corporate organizations, and community leaders to bolster support for corps members' Community Development Service projects, appreciating the continued partnership of security agencies and the media in ensuring successful orientation activities and advancing the NYSC's nationwide objectives.