Gombe Governor Faults FG’s ₦1.4bn Compensation for NYSC Camp Takeover, Says State Spent Over ₦5bn on Replacement

Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Yahaya, has voiced dissatisfaction over the ₦1.4 billion compensation paid by the Federal Government following the takeover of the state-owned NYSC orientation camp in Malam Sidi, which now serves as the base for Operation Safe Corridor (OPSC). The facility, originally constructed during the administration of former Governor Ibrahim Dankwambo for corps members’ orientation, is now managed by the Defence Headquarters for the rehabilitation and reintegration of repentant Boko Haram members.

Governor Yahaya, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibrahim Njodi, expressed these concerns while receiving a delegation of senior military officers from the Defence Headquarters on Tuesday. He explained that the state was left with no choice but to construct a new NYSC orientation camp in the Boltongo district, a project that has already cost over ₦5 billion—nearly three times the compensation received from the Federal Government.

Despite initial resistance and concerns from the Malam Sidi community, Yahaya noted that consistent government engagement and coordinated efforts with security agencies have helped ease public fears surrounding the facility. He reaffirmed Gombe State’s continued commitment to supporting the objectives of Operation Safe Corridor and maintaining a strong partnership with the Armed Forces in matters of de-radicalisation and national security.

The head of the visiting delegation, Rear Admiral Suleiman Haruna Abdullahi, stated that their mission was to conduct an administrative assessment of the OPSC programme. He added that the team had interacted with traditional rulers, religious leaders, and local residents to gain firsthand insights and would forward their findings to the Defence Headquarters to enhance the programme’s impact and promote effective governance.