The Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has allocated N5 billion for the construction of a new National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp in Paiko.
In a bid to address the shortage of medical professionals in state hospitals, Governor Bago also announced automatic employment for NYSC members who studied medicine and other health-related courses.
During the swearing-in ceremony of 1,600 youth corps members for the 2024 Batch ‘B’ Stream 1 at the Permanent Orientation Camp in Paiko, Governor Bago emphasized his administration’s commitment to supporting corps members.
He announced a special bonus of ₦200,000 each for all 1,600 corps members serving in Niger State, funded through agricultural revenues.
Governor Bago highlighted the importance of agriculture in the state’s economy, pointing out opportunities for corps members to engage in mechanized farming through partnerships with Niger Farms. He underscored initiatives to integrate agriculture into the NYSC scheme, aiming to enhance practical experiences and employment prospects for youth.
Additionally, Jamila Ibrahim Bio, Minister of Youth Development, disclosed the Federal Government’s plan to assist 5,000 NYSC members with up to ₦10 million each for business projects after completing their service. She also announced the reopening of the Nigerian Youth Investment Fund (NYIF) to empower more young innovators with financial support.
Prior to these announcements, Mrs. Olayinka Abdulwahab, the state coordinator for NYSC, highlighted the involvement of over 100 corps members in the Niger State Green Economy Project, where they are employed in agricultural initiatives operated by Niger Foods and Logistics Limited.