Reps Seek Improved Medical Services in NYSC Camps
The House of Representatives has called for improved medical services and healthcare facilities in National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camps across Nigeria to protect the lives and welfare of corps members participating in the national service programme.
The call comes amid growing concerns over the circumstances surrounding the death of a corps member, Etimbuk Daniel Sunday, at the NYSC orientation camp in Enugu State. The incident has raised questions about the adequacy of medical attention, the availability of qualified healthcare personnel and the effectiveness of emergency response procedures in orientation camps.
During plenary, lawmakers stressed the importance of ensuring that every corps member has access to prompt and appropriate medical attention whenever health challenges arise during orientation exercises.
The House emphasised that NYSC camps must have adequately equipped clinics, qualified medical personnel, essential medicines and functional emergency response systems. These facilities are necessary to manage illnesses and medical emergencies that may occur during the physically demanding orientation programme.
Lawmakers also highlighted the importance of establishing effective referral arrangements with nearby hospitals and specialist healthcare facilities. Such arrangements would enable corps members whose conditions exceed the capacity of camp clinics to receive timely medical attention.
The intervention follows concerns surrounding the treatment received by the late corps member in Enugu State. The House has called for an investigation into the circumstances of his death, including the medical care provided, the handling of his deteriorating condition and the reported delay in referring him for further treatment.
Beyond the specific incident, the development has drawn attention to the need for a comprehensive assessment of healthcare delivery across NYSC orientation camps nationwide.
Improving medical services in these camps would require sustained investment in healthcare infrastructure, adequate staffing, regular supplies of essential medicines and clear procedures for responding to emergencies.
The relevant authorities are also expected to strengthen supervision and accountability to ensure that medical personnel adhere to professional standards and that corps members receive appropriate care throughout their orientation.
The call highlights the responsibility of the government and NYSC management to prioritise the safety and well-being of young Nigerians participating in the national service programme.
Effective implementation of these measures could help address gaps in camp healthcare delivery, improve emergency response and reduce the risk of preventable deaths among corps members.
