Governor Fubara approves a major Rivers NYSC camp upgrade during NYSC DG’s visit, pledging renovations and expanded facilities
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has approved a comprehensive upgrade and renovation of facilities at the National Youth Service Corps Permanent Orientation Camp in Nonwa-Gbam, Tai Local Government Area.
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Fubara announced the decision on Wednesday during a working visit by the Director-General of the NYSC, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, to Government House, Port Harcourt.
Fubara described Rivers State as peaceful and hospitable, saying the state’s security record and welcoming culture have made it one of the most sought-after deployment destinations for corps members and their parents.
He insisted that government’s primary duty is safeguarding lives and property, adding that Rivers State has consistently met this responsibility.
The governor directed Secretary to the State Government, Dr Benino Anabraba, to assess the condition of the orientation camp and submit a detailed report for immediate action.
He further committed to providing office space for the newly created NYSC regional office and said the State Secretariat may be relocated or renovated to meet acceptable standards.
Fubara acknowledged that although the NYSC is a federal institution, the facilities serve Rivers residents directly, making it essential for the state to ensure they remain functional, safe and comfortable.
He assured that requests for expanded accommodation and repairs at the camp would receive prompt attention.
Brigadier General Nafiu, who is inspecting orientation camps nationwide, said 2,586 corps members are currently participating in the 2025 Batch C programme in Rivers State, making it the fourth most preferred deployment location after Lagos, the FCT and Oyo.
He added that 8,349 indigenes of Rivers State are serving in other states.
The NYSC chief highlighted corps members’ contributions to national development, noting that their service saves Rivers State an estimated twenty-five billion naira annually when valued at regular salary rates.
He thanked the governor for allocating land for the State Coordinator’s residence and for ongoing support to improve camp facilities.
Nafiu also called for the reconstitution of state and local government NYSC governing boards and urged the relocation of the NYSC state office from the congested Mile 2 Market in Diobu.
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He emphasised that with more than 400,000 participants nationwide and over 650,000 graduates expected to be eligible for mobilisation in 2026, facility expansion remains critical.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
