Why prospective Corps members should do COVID-19 tests as camps reopen ─PTF

*We have developed guidelines with NCDC and NYSC in preparation for reopening of orientation camps November 10, says Dr. Sani Aliyu, National Coordinator of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19

*NYSC Plateau State discharges 1,536 Corps members, extends Service Year of 23 others for abscondence in the state

Alexander Davis | ConsumerConnect

Sequel to the closure of all the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camps for several months at the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic, the Federal Government of Nigeria has said that all prospective Corps members should undergo mandatory COVID-19 tests ahead of the reopening of camps nationwide.

ConsumerConnect reports Dr. Sani Aliyu, National Coordinator of the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19, who disclosed this at a media briefing Thursday, October 15 in Abuja, FCT, said the all NYSC orientation camps in the country would reopen effective November 10, 2020.

Aliyu said: “We have developed guidelines with the NCDC (Nigeria Centre for Disease Control) and the NYSC in the preparation for the reopening of the orientation camps on the 10th of November, 2020.”

Recall that the National Service orientation camps were shut since March 2020, as part of measures to curb the spread of Coronavirus.

In a related development,

Meanwhile, the NYSC in Plateau State has extended the service year of 23 corps members for ascondence in the state.

Caroline Embu, NYSC State Coordinator, stated this Thursday during an event marking the end of service year for the 2019 Batch ‘C’ stream 1 Corps members held at the NYSC Headquarters Jos, Plateau State capital.

The State Coordinator said the 23 defaulting Corps members are currently facing disciplinary charges.

Embu said: “The charges includes: 4 are to be remobilised to repeat service as a result of ascondment and 19 others are on extension of service in varying degrees due to absenteeism.”

She expressed gratitude that 1,536 Corps members of the batch ‘C’ stream 1 deployed to Plateau completed their service year successfully.

One of the Corps members bagged the Chairman, Governing Board’s award for outstanding performance.

The Director stated: “Let me wholeheartedly commend your commitment and determination in achieving this feat.

“Irrespective of global scare on health challenge caused by COVID-19 pandemic, you stood firm to the course, supported the fight against COVID-19 pandemic, and contributed your quota to nation building through your host communities.”

She charged the outgoing Corps members to take advantage of the scheme and excel in their various future endeavours.

“Do not leave behind the gains. Go with the teachings, worthy experiences, trainings, and most especially the skills acquired with the skills acquisition and entrepreneurship development (SAED) to become self-reliant,” Embu advised.

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