A former corps member, Asiwaju Busari Shaamsuddeen Akande, has called for the urgent rehabilitation of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp in Obubra, Cross River State, following the suspension of corps members’ deployment to the facility.
Akande, who served in Cross River during the 1998/1999 Batch B service year, said the development was a source of concern, blaming years of neglect for the deterioration of the camp.
In a statement, he recalled that the Obubra camp had a capacity of about 2,500 corps members but could accommodate barely 1,000 before its closure, describing the situation as a consequence of prolonged failure to maintain the facility.
He said the camp played a significant role in shaping his experience during national service and urged the authorities to treat its closure as an opportunity to address the infrastructure challenges rather than a routine administrative adjustment.
Akande, who was subsequently posted to Ugep in Yakurr Local Government Area, said his service year also helped him build lasting relationships with the host community, where he worked in education and community development.
He recalled producing a drama film to challenge negative stereotypes about the people of Ugep, adding that the NYSC later adopted the production for screening during orientation exercises.
According to him, his contributions to the community included teaching and administrative work at Vision International School, where he remained for three years after completing his service.
He said his involvement in community activities earned him recognition from the NYSC headquarters and led to invitations to return to the Obubra camp as a motivational speaker for several years.
Akande, who is currently Secretary to the Council of the Chartered Institute of Management and Leadership, United States, said the temporary relocation of the orientation exercise to Akamkpa underscored the need for sustained investment in public infrastructure.
He argued that attention should extend beyond corps members’ allowances to include the condition of facilities where they live and undergo orientation.
The former corps member urged the NYSC authorities and the Cross River State Government to prioritise the renovation and restoration of the Obubra camp to enable it to accommodate future batches of corps members.
He said restoring the facility would preserve its historical significance and ensure that future corps members benefit from the opportunities and experiences associated with national service.
About the Author
