President Bola Tinubu has defended the Federal Government’s comprehensive reforms to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), saying the changes are necessary to align the scheme with Nigeria’s current realities and better prepare young people for the future.
In a statement shared on his official X account on Wednesday, the President described the reforms, approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) on Monday, as the most far-reaching since the NYSC was established in 1973.
Tinubu said the overhaul fulfils a key promise he made during his inauguration to expand opportunities for young Nigerians and ensure they play a leading role in national development.
According to him, the administration is transforming the NYSC from a programme focused mainly on national service into a platform that equips participants with practical skills, enhances employability and encourages entrepreneurship.
He stressed that Nigeria’s youth, who make up nearly 70 per cent of the country’s population, should be viewed as a strategic asset rather than a burden.
“Our young people are the engine of the one-trillion-dollar economy we are building and the hope of this nation,” the President stated.
Six-Week Orientation Programme
Under the approved reforms, the NYSC orientation course will be extended to six weeks. The programme will begin with civic responsibility, leadership, national values and personal development before moving into career readiness, entrepreneurship, digital skills, financial literacy and specialised training based on participants’ academic qualifications and career interests.
The specialised training will cover sectors such as agriculture, education, healthcare, technology, law, public service, infrastructure, the green economy, enterprise, the creative industry, as well as paramilitary and security services.
Improved Security and Smarter Deployment
Tinubu also announced measures aimed at strengthening the safety of corps members.
He explained that postings to security-sensitive states would now be based on detailed risk assessments. Priority would be given to indigenes, residents, graduates of institutions within those states and neighbouring states in the same geopolitical zone.
The President added that the mobilisation process would become fully technology-driven, while primary assignments would be matched more closely with corps members’ academic backgrounds, skills and career paths.
Civilian Leadership for NYSC
As part of the reforms, the NYSC will now be headed by a civilian Director-General supported by three Executive Directors, one of whom will represent the military or paramilitary services and oversee security matters.
Orientation camps will also be evaluated under a national grading and certification system, while the traditional Passing-Out Parade will be replaced with a Graduation Ceremony to reflect the programme’s expanded developmental focus.
Legal Backing for Reforms
Tinubu disclosed that he has directed the Federal Ministry of Youth Development and the Federal Ministry of Justice to begin the process of amending the NYSC Act and other relevant regulations to provide legal support for the reforms.
He also commended the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, Special Adviser on Policy and Coordination Hadiza Bala Usman, the Federal Ministry of Education and members of the reform committee for their contributions.
Addressing Nigerian youths, the President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to their future.
“This nation believes in you. We are building a country worthy of your talent, your ambition and your future,” he said.
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