3rd October, 2012
The Lagos State House of Assembly has called on the state government to immediately embark on the construction of a befitting National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp in the state.
Chairman of the House Committee on House Services and Special Duties, who paid a visit to the Ministry of Special Duties as part of the Assembly’s oversight function, said this had become important to meet the state’s mega city project.
Omisore, who represents Ifako/Ijaye Constituency 2 at the House, described the current camp used as the orientation camp as nothing to write home about.
He warned that it would be a misplaced priority if the government left the camp in such a bad shape.
He also advised that the orientation camp could be moved to its permanent site adding that the NYSC orientation camp in Lagos State was the smallest in terms of size when compared with NYSC camps in other states of the federation.
“Many corps members who are posted to Lagos state have been compelled to complete the three weeks orientation camp in other states.
“We must do what is expected of us and we must rise up to our responsibilities.
“When it comes to the issue of corps members, Lagos has the highest chunk and people must be adequately catered for without fear or favour.
“But it is sad that out of all the Southwest states, Lagos State has the poorest NYSC camp,” Omisore lamented.
He asked the Ministry to live up to expectations and tender a quarterly report of its activities to the House for proper scrutiny.
“The committee wants to collaborate with the Ministry in terms of disaster management so that Lagosians can have a meaningful life.
“We should ensure that in the next few months a befitting NYSC camp is built,” he added.
Responding, the Commissioner for Special Duties, Dr. Wale Ahmed, commended the members of the Committee for the visit.
According to him, “the issue of building a permanent NYSC Orientation Camp is of keen interest to the government.”
The Committee, which also visited the state Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), implored the agency to work closely with the House of Assembly.
Omisore advised that the House be carried along always to meet the goal of making the state habitable.
—Eromosele Ebhomele