By Stella Odueme
The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, has disclosed that the Federal Government has approved an increase in the budget for feeding Corps Members during their orientation course to improve their welfare.
Nafiu made this known while interacting with the 2026 Batch ‘C’ Stream One Corps Members at the NYSC Orientation Camp in Obubra, Cross River State, the Director, Information and Public Relations, Caroline Embu, said in a statement at the weekend.
He said the Budget Office was aware of the upward review, adding that the increased feeding budget was expected to take effect next year.
The NYSC Director-General urged Corps Members to be prudent in their spending, avoid extravagant lifestyles and cultivate the habit of saving.
He commended Nigerian youths for their resilience and determination to serve the nation, describing their commitment to national service as commendable.
Nafiu also cautioned Corps Members against exposing themselves to danger while travelling, advising them to suspend their journeys if it was approaching 6 p.m. and continue the following day.
“Don't sleep in public places, don't sleep in filling stations in large numbers, people will easily identify you,” he warned.
He advised Corps Members who needed accommodation while travelling to seek assistance at military barracks, police barracks and Department of State Services (DSS) establishments, while also contacting the NYSC through its official line.
The Director-General assured the Corps Members that efforts would be intensified to engage relevant stakeholders towards providing and renovating facilities at the Obubra Orientation Camp.
He further encouraged them to acquire practical skills that would complement their academic qualifications and improve their prospects during and after national service.
“Learn something that will be useful to you, learn cosmetology, learn how to tie gele and others,” he advised.
Earlier, the NYSC Cross River State Coordinator, Mrs Adejoke Oyenuga, described the Director-General's visit as a demonstration of his commitment to the welfare of Corps Members.
She disclosed that 1,064 Corps Members had been registered at the camp, adding that they had all adapted to the regimented camp environment.