The Centre for Social Justice, Equity and Transparency, CESJET, made the call on Thursday while reacting to the recent situation at the Sagamu camp in Ogun State, where over 4,300 prospective corps members were deployed to a facility designed for slightly above 2,000, forcing many to sleep in crowded multipurpose halls.
CESJET noted that similar capacity challenges have affected camps in Lagos and other states, with large numbers of graduates often redirected or temporarily housed under strained conditions.
“It is only proper and kind that the Nigerian Governors Forum and individual state governors take the issue of camp accommodation and overall corps members’ welfare very seriously.
“These young graduates are not strangers; they are vital partners in the development and service delivery of the states they serve,” CESJET said.
Stressing the need to prioritise the welfare of corps members, the centre noted that they routinely step into roles that support healthcare delivery and education systems, especially in underserved communities.
It added that their presence helps sustain public services that would otherwise face greater strain due to manpower shortages.
According to CESJET, the challenges of overcrowding and limited facilities require coordinated action and should not be left for the NYSC alone. It therefore called on state governments to prioritise infrastructure upgrades, additional hostels, and better logistics support for orientation camps within their jurisdictions.
“We commend the Director-General, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, for sustaining laudable reforms in the areas of posting, welfare, and security of corps members since assuming office. His focus on improving conditions and prioritising the well-being of both staff and corps members is commendable and deserves continued support.
“However, these efforts by the NYSC leadership must be complemented by state governors and local government chairmen. The responsibility for creating a conducive environment for national service cannot rest on the scheme alone; states that benefit immensely from the contributions of corps members have a social duty to invest in their welfare,” the centre added.
Improved camp facilities would enhance the orientation experience, promote better health and morale, and ultimately strengthen the impact of the one-year service programme, CESJET noted.
It urged governors to view investment in NYSC infrastructure as an investment in human capital and service delivery systems in their respective states.
CESJET specifically called on the Nigerian Governors Forum to place camp accommodation and corps members’ welfare on its agenda, encouraging collective action to address capacity gaps nationwide.
“State governments and local government councils must rise to their social responsibilities. Corps members fill critical gaps in hospitals and classrooms; it is only fair that their temporary homes during orientation receive the attention and resources they deserve.
“We urge governors to work closely with the NYSC to expand and upgrade facilities, ensure adequate bedding, sanitation, and security, and generally improve the living conditions of these young patriots who serve their fatherland with dedication,” the centre stated.
