Abuja – The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved a comprehensive reform of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), marking the first holistic review of the Scheme since its establishment in 1973.
The approval, granted during the FEC meeting presided over by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is aimed at transforming the NYSC into a skills-driven, productivity-focused and youth-empowering institution in line with the Federal Government’s vision of building a $1 trillion economy.
Announcing the decision, the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, described the reform as a landmark initiative that will preserve the NYSC’s legacy of promoting national unity while equipping young Nigerians with the skills and opportunities needed to succeed in a rapidly changing world.
Key reforms approved by the Council include a technology-driven call-up process, risk-sensitive deployment of corps members to enhance their safety, and a redesigned six-week orientation programme with greater emphasis on leadership, entrepreneurship, digital skills and specialised career development.
The reforms also introduce skills-based primary assignments that align with corps members’ academic qualifications and career aspirations, while operational leadership of the Scheme will transition to a civilian structure, with the military retaining responsibility for security support.
In addition, orientation camps will be upgraded through a national grading and certification system, while the traditional Passing Out Parade will be replaced with a graduation ceremony.
A redesigned NYSC uniform reflecting professionalism and national pride was also approved.
According to the Minister, the reform process began in 2025 following extensive consultations involving the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, the Federal Ministry of Education and the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination.
To ensure effective implementation, the Federal Executive Council directed the Attorney-General of the Federation, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, to commence amendments to the NYSC Act and relevant regulations to provide legal backing for the approved reforms.
The Federal Government said the reforms are designed to strengthen national unity, improve youth employability and position the NYSC as a more impactful institution for national development in the years ahead.
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