Precious Nwonu, Enugu

The Federal Government has approved an increase in the feeding allocation for members of the National Youth Service Corps during their orientation course, with implementation expected to begin in 2027.

The Director-General of the NYSC, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, disclosed this while interacting with members of the 2026 Batch C Stream One at the Cross River State Orientation Camp in Obubra.

Nafiu said the Budget Office had been notified of the upward review, adding that the new allocation was expected to take effect next year.

He also urged corps members to manage their finances responsibly, avoid unnecessary spending and develop a habit of saving.

The NYSC chief commended Nigerian youths for their resilience and commitment to the national service programme.

On safety, Nafiu advised corps members to avoid travelling after 6pm, recommending that those who cannot complete their journeys before then should find a safe place to stay overnight and continue the following day.

He warned them against sleeping in public places or gathering at filling stations, noting that such practices could expose them to security risks.

The director-general advised corps members facing security concerns while travelling to seek assistance at military installations, police stations or Department of State Services offices and contact the NYSC hotline.

Nafiu also pledged to intensify engagement with relevant stakeholders to improve infrastructure at the Obubra Orientation Camp.

He encouraged corps members to acquire practical skills that could improve their employment prospects and provide opportunities for self-employment after completing their service.

He specifically mentioned cosmetology, traditional hairstyling and other vocational skills as areas they could explore.

Earlier, the NYSC Cross River State Coordinator, Mrs Adejoke Oyenuga, described the director-general’s visit as evidence of the scheme’s commitment to the welfare of corps members.

Oyenuga disclosed that 1,064 corps members had registered at the camp, adding that they had adapted successfully to the structured orientation programme.