The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has officially reopened its orientation camp in Zamfara State, following a 16-month closure due to security concerns.
The reopening ceremony, held on Friday at the temporary camp in Gusau, also marked the swearing-in of Batch C Stream 1 corps members deployed to the state. The permanent orientation camp, located in Tsafe town, the headquarters of Tsafe Local Government Area, is currently undergoing renovation and reconstruction by the state government.
The camp’s closure in 2023 had caused significant disruptions for prospective corps members posted to Zamfara, with many being reassigned to Kebbi and other states for their orientation programs.
The NYSC leadership expressed confidence that the improved security situation in the state now allows for the resumption of activities. Zamfara State NYSC coordinator, Muhammad Lawan Ahmed, encouraged the new corps members to focus on the goals of national unity and integration while taking advantage of the skills acquisition programs offered during the orientation.
“This ceremony is both significant and historic, as it marks the resumption of orientation activities in the state after over a year of closure,” Ahmed said. “At the end of the call-up registration, we have 400 corps members—320 males and 80 females—who are ready to be sworn in and formally begin the orientation course.”
He also urged the corps members to maintain discipline, tolerance, and a strong understanding of the orientation’s purpose.
Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Youth Development, urged the corps members to act as ambassadors of both their states and the NYSC scheme. He encouraged them to embrace the values of unity and service while taking advantage of Zamfara’s opportunities for growth and learning.
“I urge you to take every segment of the orientation course seriously, especially the lectures about your immediate environment, so that you can gain a deeper understanding of Zamfara State,” he said. “As a government, we will continue to partner with the NYSC to ensure that the state fully benefits from this important program. We will prioritize your security and welfare, providing all the support you need to carry out your duties.”
Speaking to journalists at the event, Zamfara State Police Commissioner Mohammed Dalijan assured that robust security measures were in place to protect the corps members.
“We are here for another orientation session for corps members. The presence of myself, the Brigade Commander, and the Director of DSS shows that we are committed to providing adequate security for the corps members in Zamfara,” Dalijan stated. “Zamfara is now safe, and we will ensure that NYSC members are only posted to secure areas. The Army and the police are fully prepared to make further deployments where necessary.”
The corps members themselves expressed excitement about their deployment to Zamfara. In interviews with Channels Television, several corps members shared their enthusiasm to experience the state’s culture and contribute to its development.
“I was thrilled when NYSC posted me to Zamfara. I’ve never been to the North before, and I see this as a great opportunity to explore and start something new,” said Amah Victoria, a corps member from Lagos. “Whatever Zamfara has to offer, I’m ready to embrace it. I’m excited to try the food, enjoy the cool weather, and learn from the people here.”
