Awka North Mayor Pledges Support for NYSC, Build Corp Members’ Lodges

By Praise Chinecherem

Chairman of Awka North Local Government Area, Hon. Thankgod Anago has pledged robust support for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), including the establishment of corps lodges and enhanced collaboration.

Anago made the pledge while hosting a delegation led by the Representative of the State Coordinator who is also the NYSC Awka North Local government Inspector Mr Godwin Okoma

He vowed to address accommodation challenges, sponsor key projects, and institutionalize partnerships to bolster community development and corps welfare.

The delegation outlined five priority areas for collaboration: direct sponsorship of Community Development Service (CDS) projects through ward councillors; formation of an NYSC Local Government Committee; construction of corps lodges or transit camps in Mgbakwu, Amansea, and Ebenebe to ease housing shortages; engagement of community leaders in corps welfare and security; and support for the NYSC Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers (HIRD).

Reflecting on his own experience as a former corps member, Anago praised the scheme’s national impact and recalled NYSC’s consistent support during his tenure as caretaker chairman.

“My door is open to NYSC,” he stated, emphasizing his administration’s “great love and respect” for the agency.

The Mayor immediately agreed to host the NYSC’s 2nd Quarter HIRD program, approved plans for a corps lodge in Mgbakwu, and pledged to expedite the formation of the NYSC Local Government Committee. He also vowed to mobilize councillors and community leaders to prioritize corps welfare and security.

The delegation presented Anago with a portrait, a bound copy of the NYSC Act highlighting Section 8 (mandating LGA committees), and a compendium of CDS activities in Awka North. Corps members later received logistical support funds directly from the Mayor’s office.

The visit underscores ongoing efforts to strengthen ties between the NYSC and host communities, addressing persistent challenges such as housing insecurity for corps members. Anago’s commitments align with broader calls for local governments to institutionalize support structures for national service programs.

• The NYSC Act’s Section 8 obligates LGAs to establish committees for corps welfare.
• Awka North’s current corps population faces housing shortages, with many relying on private accommodations.
• The HIRD initiative provides free medical outreach to underserved communities, last hosted in the LGA in 2023.