The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved a comprehensive reform of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), marking the first major overhaul of the scheme since its establishment more than five decades ago. The reforms are aimed at transforming the NYSC into a more skills-driven and youth-focused institution.
Announcing the decision, the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, said the reforms are designed to equip corps members with practical skills, improve their safety, and enhance the relevance of the scheme to Nigeria’s economic development.
Among the approved changes is the introduction of a redesigned NYSC uniform intended to reflect professionalism and strengthen the identity of the scheme. The traditional Passing Out Parade will also be replaced with a graduation ceremony to recognize the successful completion of national service.
The orientation programme will be extended from three weeks to six weeks, with greater emphasis on leadership development, entrepreneurship, digital skills, and specialized career training. Corps members will also be assigned to primary places of assignment that better align with their academic qualifications and career interests.
The reforms also introduce a technology-driven call-up process, risk-sensitive deployment to improve the safety of corps members, and a national grading and certification system for orientation camps. In addition, the NYSC will transition to civilian operational leadership, while the military will continue to provide security support.
To facilitate the implementation of the reforms, FEC directed the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development to begin the process of amending the NYSC Act and other relevant regulations.
The Federal Government said the reforms are intended to reposition the NYSC as a platform that promotes youth empowerment, skills development, and national productivity while preserving its core objective of fostering unity among Nigerians.
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