A heavy rainstorm at the weekend devastated the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Orientation Camp in Yikpata, Edu Local Government Area of Kwara State, destroying major facilities and properties worth millions of naira.
The storm, which struck around 4:30 p.m., was accompanied by violent winds that ripped through several structures, disrupted camp activities, and left extensive damage across the premises.
Speaking with journalists, the Kwara State NYSC Coordinator, Mr. Onifade Olaoluwa Joshua, described the incident as a “very devastating natural phenomenon,” but expressed gratitude to God that no lives were lost.
“It’s a fact that a terrible rainstorm wreaked havoc at the NYSC permanent orientation camp, Yikpata, Edu LGA of Kwara State. It happened around 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, 26th April, 2025. Several camp facilities were destroyed,” he stated.
According to Onifade, the affected structures include the Administrative Block, the Multipurpose Hall, the Camp Mosque, the camp market, and hostel blocks housing corps members and officials.
He added that two vehicles belonging to camp officials were also badly damaged after a tree was uprooted by the storm and fell on them.
“A tree was uprooted and crushed two cars owned by camp officials,” he explained.
The NYSC Coordinator said that an immediate assessment of the damage was conducted and that relevant government authorities were promptly informed.
He also disclosed that the Kwara State Commissioner for Youth Development, Hon. Shehu Ndanusa Usman, and the Etsu of Tsaragi, HRH Alhaji Aliyu Abdullahi, had visited the camp to assess the situation and show solidarity with the NYSC family.
Despite the widespread destruction, Onifade emphasized that the safety of corps members and staff remains the most important outcome.
“We have cause to thank God — no loss of life. The corps members are safe and well accommodated,” he said.
The NYSC management is expected to collaborate with relevant agencies to carry out necessary repairs and restore normal activities at the camp.
