Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa has said that his administration would upgrade the permanent orientation camp in Ikare-Akoko.

Aiyedatiwa gave the assurance in his address on Tuesday during the swearing in ceremony of Batch ‘B’ (Stream 1) at the permanent orientation camp in Ikare-Akoko, Akoko North-East Local Government Area of Ondo.

The governor also announced the return of grants and stipends for corps members which, according to the state coordinator, has eluded the state corps members over the years.

Aiyedatiwa emphasised that his administration would continue to key into the main objective of the scheme, which is to promote unity.

He also assured to prioritise the welfare and security of all corps members posted to the state.

“I have received reports of the deteriorating and decrepit state of the infrastructure in the camp; I wish to assure you that we will move to maintain these facilities.

“As a responsible and responsive government, I say without equivocation that your welfare and security would be adequately taken care of during your service year.

“Our government will continue to support the National Youth Service Corps in the State, at all times, to ensure that you have a memorable service year,” he said.

Aiyedatiwa, who promised to improve the electricity in the camp, urged corps members to rededicate themselves and promote things that would facilitate national development.

“It is noteworthy that your call-up to service is coming up at a time in our national history when questions and concerns are being raised on the development and future of our youths.

“This is therefore, a time for sober reflection on the evolution of our dear country, and your roles are catalysts for the much needed national rebirth and re-construction,” he said.

The Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, Hon. Saka Yusuf-Ogunleye, urged the corps members to see their posting to the state as a divine arrangement.

Yusuf-Ogunleye urged them to explore the different opportunities in the state, including the tourism sector.

In his welcome address, the NYSC State Coordinator, Mr Sam Pepple, appreciated the governor for being the first sitting governor to visit the camp in over 13 years.

Pepple said 1,423 corps members comprising 607 males and 816 females had been registered for the current orientation course.

He urged the governor to also return the payment of stipends for corps members in the state.