President Bola Tinubu has defended the Federal Government's newly approved reforms to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), saying the changes are designed to equip young Nigerians with practical skills and prepare them for national development.
In a statement shared on his X account on Wednesday, the President said the reforms, approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) on Monday, represent the most significant overhaul of the NYSC since the scheme was established in 1973.
Tinubu said the reforms fulfil his administration's promise to create meaningful opportunities for young people.
He noted that while the NYSC has promoted national unity for more than five decades, evolving national realities require the scheme to place greater emphasis on skills development and employability.
Under the new reforms, the orientation camp will be extended from three to six weeks. The programme will focus on civic responsibility, leadership, entrepreneurship, career readiness, digital and financial literacy, as well as specialised training tailored to participants' academic backgrounds and career aspirations.
The President said corps members will receive training in sectors including agriculture, education, health, technology, law, public service, infrastructure, the green economy, the creative industry, enterprise, and para-military and security services.
Tinubu also announced measures to improve the safety of corps members through a risk-based deployment system, particularly for security-challenged states. The policy will prioritise indigenes, residents, graduates of institutions in affected states, and those from neighbouring states within the same geopolitical zone.
He added that the call-up process will become technology-driven, while primary assignments will be aligned with each corps member's qualifications, skills and career interests.
As part of the reforms, the NYSC will be headed by a civilian Director-General, supported by three Executive Directors, including one from the military or paramilitary to oversee security.
Orientation camps will also be evaluated under a national grading and certification framework, with states required to meet minimum operational standards.
In addition, the traditional Passing-Out Parade will be replaced with a Graduation Ceremony to reflect the enhanced training corps members will receive.
Tinubu directed the Federal Ministry of Youth Development and the Federal Ministry of Justice to begin amending the NYSC Act and related regulations to provide legal backing for the reforms.
He also commended the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, the Special Adviser on Policy and Coordination, Hadiza Bala Usman, the Federal Ministry of Education and members of the reform committee for their roles in developing the initiative.
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