The National Youth Service Corps has relocated its orientation camp in Kwara State from Yikpata in Edu Local Government Area to the Kwara State Polytechnic in Ilorin, due to escalating insecurity.

The State Coordinator, Mr Onifade Olaoluwa Joshua, confirmed the move to The Punch on Thursday in Ilorin, stating that the decision followed approval from the state government after concerns were raised over the safety of corps members.

He said: "We are fully prepared to host the orientation course, and the welfare of participants will be safeguarded. Soldiers and other security personnel will be deployed to ensure the safety of corps members during the three-week exercise."

Onifade added that corps members are expected to report between 24 September and 14 October, and that a delegation from NYSC headquarters will inspect the temporary venue.

The decision comes amid worsening insecurity in Kwara North, especially in Edu and Patigi LGAs, which have witnessed repeated bandit attacks.

Dozens of residents have been killed, kidnapped or displaced in recent months, forcing many rural communities to flee their homes.

In August, corps members at Yikpata camp were ordered to remain indoors by soldiers after suspicious movements were noticed around the site, heightening fears among participants and their parents.

Onifade thanked the federal and state governments for their support, while appealing to parents to remain calm.

He assured that the scheme was working to deliver a safe and successful orientation programme.