NYSC Reacts As Corps Members Lament High Food Prices In Camps

The National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, has denied reports claiming high food prices in orientation camps, labelling them as unfounded and mischievous fabrications.

Osun Defender recalls that the 2024 Batch A, Stream 1 NYSC members mobilized this February for service, have expressed dissatisfaction with the soaring food prices in the Mammy market.

The Mammy markets are stationed in every NYSC camp for those unable to endure the queues for camp-provided food.

A Corp member, Jefferson in Bauchi NYSC Camp, shared on TikTok that the exorbitant costs in Mammy markets have forced nearly all Corp members to queue for camp food.

He stated, “Everyone wants camp food due to the unaffordable prices in Mammy markets. Those who brought thousands to the camp have exhausted their funds within two days. Now, food is scarce for all Corp members. We are even fighting to be in the queue and receive very little food.”

Another Corp member in the southern part of the country mentioned that the camp coordinator advised Corp members not to rely on camp food, as it is not supposed to be sufficient for everyone. She said, “Our camp coordinator even told us to consider camp exit because the camp cannot feed everyone.”

However, while reacting in a statement on Saturday, NYSC’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Eddy Megwa, stressed that the allegations were described as “laughable, absurd, and unfortunate.”
Megwa condemned the circulating narrative, which suggested that a state coordinator encouraged corps members to leave the orientation camp due to food shortages.

“The story is nothing but a tissue of lies, intended to cause mischief,” stated Megwa.

NYSC management insisted that such a claim is baseless, particularly considering the experience and rank of the state coordinators involved, who are seasoned officials, many with over 25 years of dedicated service.

Megwa outlined the operational framework of the orientation camps, emphasizing the system of checks and balances in place to ensure a smooth and well-regulated course of activities, including the feeding of corps members.

“A Resident Officer from the NYSC National Directorate Headquarters is always present to oversee the adherence to policies and rules,” he explained.