The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Edo State has expressed concern over the increasing number of corps members relocating to other states. Mrs. Frances Ben-Ushie, the state coordinator, shared these concerns during the swearing-in ceremony for the 2025 Batch ‘A’ Stream I corps members. She attributed the high relocation rate to two main issues: the lack of feeding augmentation during the orientation course and the failure to pay state allowances to the serving corps members. These challenges, she noted, have led many corps members to seek postings in other states where conditions are perceived to be more favorable.

Ben-Ushie called on Governor Monday Okpebholo to address these issues, stating that resolving them would significantly improve the effectiveness of the orientation course and other NYSC activities. She also pointed out the absence of annual state subvention, which is required by the NYSC Act to fund the operations of the scheme, and urged the government to provide additional financial support to improve infrastructure at the permanent orientation camp in Okada, Ovia North-East Local Government Area.

In addition to the financial and logistical issues, Ben-Ushie highlighted the lack of adequate hostel accommodation for both corps members and camp officials. As the number of corps members continues to increase each year, the need for expanded accommodation has become urgent. She also mentioned the lack of essential facilities such as workshops and laboratories to support skills acquisition training, as well as ongoing issues with electricity and water supply at the camp. Furthermore, the absence of a multipurpose hall, which has forced the dining hall to serve multiple functions, continues to disrupt camp operations.

Governor Okpebholo, represented by Mrs. Aiyegbeni Balogun, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Youth and Humanitarian Affairs, assured the corps members that the state government is committed to their welfare and security. She encouraged the new corps members to take advantage of the opportunities available in agriculture, education, technology, entrepreneurship, and tourism in the state. She also reassured them that efforts had been made to ensure that the environment in Edo State is conducive for them to thrive and make meaningful contributions.

In conclusion, Ben-Ushie urged the state government to urgently address the infrastructure and logistical challenges faced by the NYSC in the state, stressing the importance of completing the main access gate to the camp and providing operational vehicles to monitor and inspect corps members. Despite these challenges, the NYSC remains dedicated to ensuring that corps members in Edo State have a productive and impactful service year.