Ekiti starts work on NYSC camp renovation

The Ekiti State Government has started the renovation and upgrade of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Orientation Camp in Emure-Ise-Orun. They are currently working on 19 projects at the camp.

This move comes after Governor Biodun Oyebanji promised to improve the camp and the living conditions of corps members who come to the state for their orientation programme.

Gold Adedayo, the Commissioner for Youth Development, shared this news on Wednesday. He was inspecting the ongoing projects at the camp. He said the renovation is part of the government's efforts to support youth development.

Mr Adedayo mentioned that once the renovation is done, the camp will have a modern look. It will also provide a better environment for corps members during their orientation.

“The upgrade will change the camp into one of the best NYSC orientation facilities in the country,” he stated.

The projects the commissioner checked include the gatehouse, registration centre, five male and seven female hostels, dining area, kitchen, stores, perimeter fence, and the NYSC State Coordinator’s Lodge.

Mr Adedayo expressed happiness with how well the work is going. He praised the contractors for sticking to the schedule to finish the projects on time.

In July 2024, Mr Oyebanji told the state’s Bureau of Special Projects to test the buildings at the camp. This was after the toilet facilities collapsed at the camp.

The governor gave this order during a meeting with the NYSC Governing Council, which Mr Adedayo leads. He said the results of the integrity test would help the government decide what to do next about the camp’s facilities and improve living conditions.

In late August, the governor approved a full renovation and upgrade of the camp.

While visiting the site on Wednesday, Olubunmi Talabi, the Special Adviser to Mr Oyebanji on Special Projects, said the projects are running at the same time. His bureau is supervising the work, which will be completed within the timeframe set by the governor.

He noted that the government aims to finish the work in two months. This will allow corps members to return to camp activities as planned.

“Solar lighting solutions will also be added to all buildings and facilities in the camp. This will improve lighting, enhance security, and give corps members and camp officials a better experience,” he added.

He also said that the government is using local contractors and artisans. This is part of the local content policy and will ensure that residents benefit from the project.