The Federal Executive Council (FEC), chaired by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has approved a comprehensive reform of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) as part of efforts to modernise the scheme and align it with Nigeria’s evolving socio-economic and security realities.
According to the Federal Government, the reforms are aimed at strengthening the NYSC’s relevance, improving the welfare and safety of corps members, and enhancing the programme’s contribution to national development and youth empowerment.
The approved reform is expected to review key aspects of the scheme’s operations, including service delivery, skills acquisition, entrepreneurship development, digital innovation, and administrative efficiency.
Government officials said the initiative seeks to equip corps members with practical skills that will improve their employability and support self-reliance after completing the mandatory one-year national service.
The reform also reflects growing calls from stakeholders for the NYSC to adapt to contemporary challenges, particularly in the areas of security, technological advancement, and economic development.
The NYSC, established in 1973, was created to promote national unity, foster cultural integration, and encourage young graduates to contribute to development across different parts of the country. Over the years, there have been repeated proposals to update the scheme to reflect changing national priorities.
While the Federal Executive Council has approved the reform, the implementation process is expected to involve the relevant ministries, departments, and agencies responsible for developing the necessary policies and administrative frameworks.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the NYSC as a platform for national integration, youth development, and nation-building, expressing confidence that the reforms will make the scheme more impactful for future generations of Nigerian graduates.
