Rivers Gets Over 4,000 Youth Corps Members Amid Accommodation Problem

By Ayodele Oni 

Over 4,000 youth corps members deployed to Rivers State for the 2026 Batch C, Stream II Orientation Course, on Friday commenced their orientation course amid complaint on inadequate accommodation.

Addressing the corps members, Rivers State NYSC Coordinator, Mr. Moses Oleghe, disclosed that the state received its largest deployment of Corps Members, attributing the development to the attractive welfare packages provided for serving members.

Oleghe, however, raised concerns over the pressure on existing accommodation facilities, which he described as overwhelmingly overstretched.

He appealed to the state government to urgently mobilise contractors to commence work on the approved 1,000-capacity hostels for male and female Corps Members to address the accommodation challenges in the camp.

The NYSC Coordinator also urged the Corps Members to uphold the principles of patriotism, integrity, honesty, transparency and political neutrality, particularly in their anticipated roles as INEC ad-hoc staff during the 2027 general elections.

He noted that their commitment to these values would contribute to strengthening the nation’s democratic institutions and ensuring credible electoral processes.

Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, charged them to justify the confidence reposed in them by contributing meaningfully to the successful conduct of the 2027 general elections and the overall development of the country.

Fubara gave the charge  at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Nonwa-Gbam, Tai Local Government Area, while declaring open the 2026 Batch C, Stream II Orientation Course.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Cabinet Bureau, Office of the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Promise Oguzie, the governor assured Corps Members of his administration’s commitment to prioritising their security and welfare throughout their service year.

He urged them to reciprocate the hospitality, goodwill and support of Rivers people by demonstrating dedication, selflessness and commitment to service, adding that they should strive to make the state better than they met it.

A total of 4,485 Corps Members deployed to Rivers State took the oath of allegiance administered by Justice Victor Ugorji, who represented the Chief Judge of the state.