Njikoka Local Government Council of Anambra State has officially commissioned a rehabilitated 6-bedroom Corper’s Lodge at the Council Headquarters in Abagana.
The gesture, made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Council and the NYSC, was to alleviate the persistent accommodation challenges faced by Corps Members during their service year.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Chairman, Uju Okafor acknowledged the crucial role that NYSC Corps Members have played in the development of the area over the years, which prompted the Council to undertake the project.
“The decision to build and donate this accommodation stems from our appreciation of the Corps members’ service and their contribution to the growth of Njikoka LGA,” she said.
State Coordinator, Mrs. Blessing Ekene Iruma, expressed her gratitude for the gesture, stating that the 6-room lodge with a sitting room would significantly improve the living conditions of Corps Members in the area.
She revealed that when she visited the Local Government two years ago, she had requested the rehabilitation of the facility, and she was pleased to see that the Council had delivered.
“This lodge will make the service year much more comfortable for the Corps members, and we are incredibly grateful for this support,” she said.
Serving Corps Members with Council Chairman, Officials after the unveiling
Iruma further urged the Corps Members to reciprocate this gesture by dedicating themselves to their tasks and performing diligently throughout their service year.
“To whom much is given, much is expected,” she emphasized, encouraging the Corps members to uphold the values of hard work and excellence.
LGA Administrator, Mr. Ernest Mbonu, pledged that the new facility would be well-maintained to ensure that it serves its purpose for years to come.
“We will ensure that the lodge is put to good use and maintained properly for future Corps members,” he assured.
Also speaking at the event, Engr. Augustine Emeka, the Head of Works, Njikoka LGA shared the motivation behind the project.
“The reason for embarking on this project is to make Corps Members feel at home and part of the community. When they arrive after camp, they are usually apprehensive about accommodation.
“This facility will ease their concerns and make their service year more comfortable,” he added.
The commissioning ceremony concluded with a symbolic ribbon-cutting, led by the Deputy Chairman, Uju Okafor, alongside the State Coordinator, Mrs. Blessing Ekene Iruma, Zonal Inspector, Mr. Ferdinand Anya, and other Council members.
The event marked a new chapter in the relationship between the NYSC and Njikoka Local Government, reinforcing the importance of collaboration for the benefit of the community and Corps Members alike.
With this initiative, the Njikoka Local Government Council has set a precedent in improving the welfare of Corps members, contributing to a more fulfilling and impactful service year for the 2024 Batch C Corps Members stationed in the area.