The Minister of State for Youth Development, Hon. Olawande, recently visited the NYSC orientation camp in Yikpata, Kwara State, on an unscheduled visit.
During this visit on Tuesday, November 28, 2023, he assured corps members of the federal government’s commitment to enhancing the conditions of NYSC orientation camps nationwide.
Expressing concern over the deplorable state of some NYSC camps, Hon. Olawande pledged to collaborate with relevant authorities to revamp not only the Kwara State orientation camp but also others across the nation.
He acknowledged the unacceptable conditions faced by corps members and apologized, emphasizing the need for collective action by stakeholders to address the situation.
In a show of gratitude for the corps members’ resilience, the minister assured them that the administration led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would not let them down.
He encouraged the youth, stating, “If I can be a Minister, you all can become whatever you wish to be.”
Highlighting the government’s commitment to empowering young people, he stressed the importance of placing youth in charge of youth affairs.
The minister pondered the future for the graduates, asking, “Where do you go from here? How do you live decent lives as a graduate?” He assured that the Tinubu administration would provide answers to these questions, promising not to fail the youth.
During the visit, the State Coordinator of NYSC in Kwara State, Mr. Onifade Olaoluwa, expressed delight at the minister’s presence, considering it a morale booster.
He welcomed the prospects of the minister’s pledge to overhaul the NYSC and improve its operations, particularly focusing on camp facilities.
Before concluding his visit, Hon. Olawande engaged with corps members amidst cheers and took time to visit the Mami market.
He purchased food items, which were shared with the corps members.
Additionally, the minister inspected various camp facilities, including the kitchen, hostels, and clinic, underscoring the government’s commitment to addressing the holistic needs of the youth participating in the National Youth Service Corps.