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 in its 53-year history.
The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, announced the approval on Monday, saying the reforms are aimed at preserving the NYSC’s legacy of national unity while repositioning it as a platform that equips young Nigerians with relevant skills, experience and opportunities for the future.
According to the minister, the reforms will transform the NYSC into a skills-driven, productivity-focused and youth-empowering institution in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of building a $1 trillion economy.
“Today, we have taken a bold step to preserve that legacy while preparing it for the future. We are transforming the Scheme into a platform that not only unites Nigeria but also equips our young people with the skills, experience and opportunities they need to thrive in a fast-changing world,” Olawande stated.
The approved reforms include a technology-driven call-up process to enhance efficiency and transparency, risk-sensitive deployment to improve the safety of corps members, and a redesigned six-week orientation programme with stronger emphasis on leadership, entrepreneurship, digital skills and specialised career streams.
Other key changes include skills-based primary assignments aligned with corps members’ academic backgrounds and career pathways, modern governance featuring civilian operational leadership while the military continues to provide security support, and improved orientation camp standards through a national grading and certification system.
The Council also approved the introduction of a new graduation ceremony to replace the traditional Passing Out Parade, alongside a redesigned NYSC uniform intended to reflect professionalism and national pride.
Olawande disclosed that the reform process commenced 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.
He said the Federal Executive Council has directed the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development to commence the amendment of the NYSC Act and its regulations to provide the legal backing required for the implementation of the reforms.
The minister described the Council’s approval as a significant milestone in strengthening the NYSC’s role in national development and preparing Nigerian youths with the skills and competencies needed to excel in an evolving global economy.
The reforms will take effect upon the completion of the necessary legislative amendments to the NYSC Act and related regulations.
