Otti’s New Abia: How Transformation Made The State A Choice Destination For Youth Corpers

EBERE UZOUKWA, PhD 

The latest commendation by the Director General of the National Youth Service Corps, Brigadier General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, provides another important indication of the changing fortunes of Abia State under Governor Alex Chioma Otti, OFR.

The fact that 8,890 corps members, including 5,083 females, are currently serving across all 17 Local Government Areas of Abia is significant. According to the NYSC DG, the higher number of female corps members reflects confidence in the relative peace and security of the State.

Beyond security, the transformation is also evident in the attention being given to corps members’ welfare. The ongoing renovation of the NYSC Orientation Camp in Umunna, Bende, including hostels, the multipurpose hall and solar powered streetlights, coupled with the upward review of the State’s allowance for corps members, demonstrates a deliberate effort to make their service experience better.

The presence of 53 doctors, 53 pharmacists and 117 nurses, among other medical personnel, is equally noteworthy. These young professionals are complementing the Governor’s aggressive intervention in primary healthcare, particularly as the administration works to functionalize renovated health centres across the State.

Governor Otti’s immediate approval of the second phase of the NYSC camp renovation further reinforces the administration’s responsiveness to issues affecting young Nigerians serving in Abia.

Indeed, the NYSC assessment suggests that the transformation of Abia is beginning to extend beyond physical infrastructure to security, welfare, public service delivery and the overall perception of the State among young Nigerians.

Abia is gradually moving from being simply a destination where corps members are posted to a State where they can serve with confidence, feel secure and see genuine opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Dr. Ebere Uzoukwa is the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Abia State on Public Affairs.