The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has officially reopened its orientation camp in Zamfara State, 16 months after it was closed due to security concerns. The reopening ceremony, held on Friday at the temporary camp in Gusau, also marked the swearing-in of Batch C Stream 1 corps members deployed to the state.
The permanent orientation camp in Tsafe town, Tsafe Local Government Area, is currently undergoing renovation and reconstruction by the state government.
The camp’s closure in 2023 had disrupted the plans of prospective corps members, leading many to be redirected to Kebbi and other states for their orientation programs. However, NYSC leadership expressed confidence in the improved security situation, allowing for the resumption of activities in the state.
Commitment to National Unity and Security
During the ceremony, the Zamfara State NYSC Coordinator, Muhammad Lawan Ahmed, urged corps members to focus on national unity and integration while making the most of the camp’s skills acquisition programs.
“This ceremony is significant and historic as it marks the resumption of orientation activities in the state more than a year after its closure,” Ahmed noted. He welcomed the 400 corps members—320 males and 80 females—and encouraged them to maintain discipline and embrace the essence of the orientation course.
Government’s Support and Assurance
Governor Dauda Lawal, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Youth Development, encouraged corps members to be good ambassadors of their respective states and the NYSC scheme. He highlighted the opportunities for growth and learning in Zamfara.
“I urge you to take every segment of the orientation course seriously and pay special attention to lectures about your immediate environment to gain first-hand knowledge of Zamfara State,” he said. The governor assured them of the government’s commitment to their security and welfare, promising full support in carrying out their duties.
Security Measures in Place
Zamfara State Police Commissioner, Mohammed Dalijan, reaffirmed that comprehensive security measures have been implemented to protect the corps members.
“The presence of the Brigade Commander, the Director of DSS, and myself underscores our readiness to ensure the safety of corps members in Zamfara. The state is now safe, and we are committed to their protection,” Dalijan stated. He assured that corps members would only be posted to secure areas, with additional deployments by the police and army to guarantee their safety.
Corps Members’ Enthusiasm
Despite initial concerns, corps members expressed excitement about their deployment to Zamfara. Speaking with Channels Television, some highlighted their eagerness to explore the state’s culture and contribute to its development.
“I was excited when NYSC posted me to Zamfara. I love exploring new places, and I’ve never been to the North before. This is an opportunity to embrace something new,” said Amah Victoria, a corps member from Lagos. “I’m ready to experience everything Zamfara has to offer, from the food to the cool weather.”
The reopening of the Zamfara NYSC orientation camp signals renewed hope for corps members and reflects the ongoing efforts to enhance security and foster national unity in the region.
