NYSC Camp Congestion: Centre Tasks Governors To Rise To Challenges

The Centre for Social Justice, Equity and Transparency (CESJET) has expressed deep concern over the persistent congestion and inadequate accommodation facilities in several National Youth Service Corps orientation camps across the country.

The group particularly highlighted the recent situation at the Sagamu camp in Ogun State, where over 4,300 prospective corps members were deployed to a facility designed for slightly more than 2,000, forcing many to sleep in crowded multipurpose halls.

CESJET noted that similar capacity challenges had affected camps in Lagos and other states, with large numbers of graduates often redirected or temporarily housed under strained conditions.

In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Isaac Ikpa, the organisation stressed that these recurring issues undermined the welfare and dignity of young Nigerians answering the call to national service.

“Corps members contribute significantly to the workforce of every state in Nigeria. They provide essential services in hospitals, filling critical gaps in medical manpower, and serve as teachers in numerous primary and secondary schools, helping to address shortages in teaching staff,” CESJET stated.

“It is only proper and kind that the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and individual state governors take the issue of camp accommodation and overall corps members’ welfare very seriously.

“These young graduates are not strangers; they are vital partners in the development and service delivery of the states they serve.”

The Centre observed that corps members routinely stepped into roles that supported healthcare delivery and education systems, particularly in underserved communities.

Their presence helped sustain public services that would otherwise face greater strain due to manpower shortages.

CESJET emphasised that the challenges of overcrowding and limited facilities required coordinated action beyond the federal agency, calling on state governments to prioritise infrastructure upgrades, additional hostels and better logistics support for orientation camps within their jurisdictions.

“We commend the Director-General, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, for sustaining laudable reforms in the areas of posting, welfare and security of corps members since assuming office.

“His focus on improving conditions and prioritising the well-being of both staff and corps members is commendable and deserves continued support,” the statement read.

“However, these efforts by the NYSC leadership must be complemented by state governors and local government chairmen.

“The responsibility for creating a conducive environment for national service cannot rest on the scheme alone; states that benefit immensely from the contributions of corps members have a social duty to invest in their welfare.”

CESJET pointed out that improved camp facilities would enhance the orientation experience, promote better health and morale, and ultimately strengthen the impact of the one-year service programme.

The group urged governors to view investment in NYSC infrastructure as an investment in their own human capital and service delivery systems.

The Centre further called on the Nigeria Governors’ Forum to place camp accommodation and corps members’ welfare on its agenda, encouraging collective action to address capacity gaps nationwide.

“State governments and local government councils must rise to their social responsibilities. Corps members fill critical gaps in hospitals and classrooms; it is only fair that their temporary homes during orientation receive the attention and resources they deserve,” Ikpa added.

“We urge governors to work closely with the NYSC to expand and upgrade facilities, ensure adequate bedding, sanitation and security, and generally improve the living conditions of these young patriots who serve their fatherland with dedication.”