President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a comprehensive reform of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), introducing sweeping changes to modernize the scheme, improve the safety of corps members, and enhance its relevance to national development.
As part of the reforms, the President approved a new governance structure that places the operational leadership of the NYSC under a civilian, while the military will continue to provide security support for corps members across the country.
To facilitate the immediate implementation of the reforms, President Tinubu directed the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, alongside the Minister of Youth, Ayodele Olawande, to amend the NYSC Act and relevant regulations to accommodate the approved changes.
The reform package introduces a technology-driven call-up process designed to improve efficiency and transparency in the mobilization of prospective corps members.
It also provides for a risk-sensitive deployment system to ensure corps members are posted to safer locations based on prevailing security conditions.
Under the new framework, the NYSC orientation program will be redesigned into a six-week exercise with greater emphasis on leadership development, entrepreneurship, digital skills, and specialized career pathways aimed at improving participants’ employability.
The President also approved skills-based primary assignments that will align corps members’ postings with their academic qualifications and career aspirations, replacing the existing placement approach.
To improve service delivery, the reforms include a national grading and certification system for NYSC orientation camps to ensure uniform standards across the country.
In addition, the traditional Passing Out Parade will be replaced with a new graduation ceremony, while the NYSC uniform will be redesigned to reflect professionalism and promote greater national pride.
The reforms are expected to strengthen the NYSC scheme by making it more responsive to the needs of young Nigerians and better equipped to contribute to national development.
