Soludo Assures of Intervention in NYSC Camp Erosion Menace

By Praise Chinecherem

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo has assured soon intervention of erosion menace at the permanent orientation camp in Mbaukwu/Umuawulu, Awka South Local Government Area of the state.

Soludo gave the assurance on Friday shortly after declaring open swearing-in ceremony of 2023 Batch B’ stream 1 corps members totaling 1610.

The Governor, represented by Chief of Staff, Mr Ernest Ezeajughi said government would liase with the State Coordinator to find lasting solution to the menace.

He said fighting erosion remained a collective responsibility, emphasizing the importance of planting of trees and grasses as part of remedy to the scourge.

He said, “Anambra State is the erosion capital of the world and we have made it very clear that about 1000 active gully erosion is ravaging the state. This is not different.

“The truth is that government can’t do it alone. We have ecological fund office at the federal level. But at the local level, we have roles to play including tree planting to ensure the menace is addressed.

“As per this camp, l’ll have discussions with the Coordinator and refer her to the Commissioner in charge of Environment and MD in charge of Watershed and Erosion and see what can be done.”

Earlier, State Coordinator, NYSC, Mrs Blessing Iruma regretted that the erosion challenge had remained serious threats to smooth operations of the camp.

She said the menace had eaten up some portion of the landscape and pulled down part of the camp fence, appealing for the government’s assistance.

Describing the 3-weeks Orientation Course as opportunity for corps members to learn important skills, imbibe discipline and foster sense of nationhood and unity, Iruma sought for intervention of relevant authorities in locating the proposed NYSC Southeast Area Skill Acquisition Centre in Anambra camp.

“I would like to use this opportunity to appeal to both the State and Local Government authorities for intervention in the area of locating the proposed NYSC South East Area Skill Acquisition Centre in Umuawulu.

“This will provide Corps Members and the entire community the opportunity to acquire valuable skills that will enable them to become self-employed and contribute to the development of the State,” she said.