Educationist Akande Criticizes Government Over Youth Infrastructure Decay

By Niger Delta Youth Council October 28, 2026

An educationist and former National Youth Service Corps member in Cross River State, Asiwaju Busari Shaamsuddeen Akande, has called for sustained government investment in educational infrastructure. Akande argued that national commitment to young Nigerians must extend beyond increasing allowances to ensuring the availability of decent, functional facilities for youth development.

The appeal follows recent reports that the Director-General of the NYSC, Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, suspended further corps member deployments to Cross River State. The suspension came after an inspection of the permanent orientation camp in Obubra Local Government Area revealed that the facilities had deteriorated significantly and no longer met required safety and operational standards.

In response to the closure, the Cross River State Government announced the temporary relocation of orientation activities to the University of Education and Entrepreneurship in Akamkpa Local Government Area. Governor Bassey Otu subsequently ordered immediate rehabilitation work at the Obubra site, promising that operations would return to the permanent camp once comprehensive renovations are complete.

Akande, who served in the state during the 1998 to 1999 service year, noted that the decline of the camp from hosting 2,500 corps members per stream to fewer than 1,000 exemplified long-term neglect of public infrastructure. He emphasized that the NYSC scheme plays a critical role in fostering national integration and cultural understanding, but warned that these objectives require safe and conducive environments for participants.

Concluding his remarks, Akande urged relevant authorities to ensure that the rehabilitation of the Obubra facility is carried out promptly and thoroughly. He stressed that regular maintenance and timely capital investment are essential to prevent future disruptions and to guarantee that young Nigerians can complete their national service under suitable conditions.

Source reporting: Daily Post — 2026-10-28 08:13:39

This report was prepared using assisted newsroom research and remains subject to editorial review.

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Niger Delta Youth Council

The Niger Delta Chronicle is a regional media platform focused on reporting news, development, and key issues within Nigeria’s Niger Delta. It highlights topics such as governance, environmental concerns, and community affairs across the region. The platform is run by the Niger Delta Youth Council, amplifying youth voices and promoting regional advocacy.