The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has called for the deployment of more troops to its orientation camps nationwide in view of the growing security challenges.

The chairman, Governing Board of NYSC Fatima Abubakar made the call when she led members of the board on a courtesy visit to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru on Thursday in Abuja.

She said the call for more deployment was a result of the growing sizes of the camps and the nature of the current security environment.

She also called for collaboration between NYSC and the army for the safety of corps members during elections.

“We hope that the army can teach safety and escape drills to corps members and staff on issues of safety and security in the unfortunate event of an attack during and after orientation programme,” she said.

Ms Abubakar said that the Nigerian Army, being the second major stakeholder in the NYSC scheme, has continued to play its statutory role by sending commandants to man NYSC camps.

She commended the army for the provision of limited training and security to corps members during orientation camps and national assignments such as elections.

Ms Abubakar also commended the army for providing accommodation for corps members across barracks.

Responding, Mr Attahiru commended the scheme for the continuous effort to inculcate discipline in youths by instilling in them an attitude of loyal service to the nation.

He assured the Corps that the Nigerian Army would continue to ensure adequate security for all members during orientation camps, primary assignments and other national duties, urging the board to include national patriotism and entrepreneurship into its programmes to give youths more advantage.

(NAN)