Akwa Ibom Governor Approves Major Reconstruction of NYSC Camp, Boosts Corps Members’ Allowances

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has announced the immediate reconstruction and upgrade of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Permanent Orientation Camp located at Ikot Itie Udung in Nsit-Antai Local Government Area. The move, aimed at enhancing the welfare and comfort of corps members, was revealed on Friday, August 1, 2025, during the swearing-in ceremony of the NYSC 2025 Batch ‘B’ Stream 1 corps members.

Governor Eno, who was represented at the ceremony by the Commissioner for Youth Development, Dr. Ekerete Ekanem, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to creating an optimal environment for the youths undergoing national service. “My administration has approved the reconstruction of a state-of-the-art orientation camp for corps members,” the Governor stated, indicating a comprehensive overhaul to modernize the facilities.

This significant approval comes alongside other notable initiatives designed to support corps members. Effective August 1, 2025, the state allowance for corps members serving in Akwa Ibom has been quadrupled from N5,000 to N20,000 monthly. In a gesture of inclusive leadership, this increased allowance will also be extended to all Akwa Ibom State indigenes serving in other parts of the federation.

Furthermore, Governor Eno disclosed the approval for the construction of “Youth Friendly Hubs” across all 31 Local Government Areas of the state. These hubs are envisioned to be equipped with solar power and full internet access, serving as vital resources for youth engagement and development. Corps members with relevant expertise will be deployed to provide technical support at these facilities.

“We will continue to partner with the NYSC to ensure your welfare,” Governor Eno assured the corps members, urging them to utilize their service year wisely by impacting lives through education, health, agriculture, and community development. He also encouraged them to explore the state’s communities, understand local values, and contribute meaningfully to the government’s initiatives.

Earlier in his address, the Akwa Ibom State NYSC Coordinator, Mr. Sam Pepple, expressed profound gratitude to Governor Eno for his dual approval to reconstruct the permanent orientation camp and significantly increase the state allowance. He highlighted that a total of 1,078 corps members (518 male and 560 female) were registered for the current service batch. Pepple encouraged the new corps members to actively participate in all orientation activities, emphasizing their importance in equipping them with essential leadership ingredients for their primary assignments and community development service.

The comprehensive plan for the NYSC camp reconstruction and the enhanced welfare packages underscore Akwa Ibom State’s dedication to supporting the national youth service scheme and fostering an enabling environment for young Nigerians deployed to the state.