**As Kogi Disburses ₦18m Transport Support
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has urged members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to uphold discipline, unity, and self-reliance as they begin their service year across the state.
He also announced the release of over ₦18 million as transport support for 1,807 corps members who participated in the 2026 Batch ‘A’ Stream II orientation course in Kogi State.
Governor’s Message at Orientation Camp
Represented by his deputy, Comrade Joel Oyibo Salifu, the governor gave the charge during the closing ceremony of the three-week orientation exercise held at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Asaya, Kabba.
He encouraged the corps members to fully engage in the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme, describing it as a key pathway to practical skills, self-employment, and reduced dependence on white-collar jobs after service.
According to him, the orientation programme was designed not only for discipline and national integration but also to prepare young graduates for productive living through drills, entrepreneurship training, sports, and other developmental activities.
₦18m Transport Support Explained
Governor Ododo announced a transport allowance of ₦10,000 per corps member for all 1,807 participants, bringing the total support package to over ₦18 million.
He said the gesture reflects the state government’s commitment to easing the financial burden on corps members and supporting their safe relocation to places of primary assignment.
Call for Peaceful Integration
The governor also urged the corps members to respect local customs, remain law-abiding, and build good relationships with their host communities, noting that peaceful coexistence is essential for a successful service year.
He assured them of adequate security and welfare support from the state government throughout their stay in Kogi State.
NYSC Commends State Support
In her remarks, the Kogi State NYSC Coordinator, Mrs. Chris-Moneke Chika Tochi, congratulated the corps members for completing the orientation course successfully.
She advised them to accept their postings in good faith, remain security conscious, and take advantage of the SAED programme to acquire sustainable skills.
She also praised the state government for its continued support, including the renovation of camp facilities and welfare assistance that contributed to the smooth conduct of the orientation exercise.
Bottom Line
The event combined a policy message on youth empowerment with practical financial support, reflecting a broader push by the Kogi State Government to position corps members not just as temporary workers, but as potential entrepreneurs and contributors to local development.