FG okays reform of NYSC, introduces civilian leadership and skill-based orientation

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AKINWALE ABOLUWADE

The Federal Government has approved a comprehensive reform of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), marking the most significant overhaul of the scheme since its establishment 53 years ago.

The approval was granted by the Federal Executive Council (FEC), which also directed the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Ministry of Youth to amend the NYSC Act and its regulations to accommodate the new reforms and ensure their immediate implementation.

A major highlight of the reform is the transition of the NYSC to civilian operational leadership, while the military will continue to provide security for corps members nationwide.

According to the government, the reforms are designed to reposition the NYSC as a skill-oriented, productivity-driven and youth-empowering institution that will contribute to President Bola Tinubu’s ambition of building a $1 trillion economy.

Speaking on the development, the Special Adviser to the President on Policy Coordination, Hadiza Bala Usman, said the reforms are aimed at strengthening human capital development and aligning the NYSC with Nigeria’s economic and national development goals.

She explained that the new framework will overhaul key aspects of the scheme, including corps members’ registration, deployment process, security considerations and orientation camp activities.

Under the new structure, the six-week orientation camp will be divided into three phases. The first two weeks will focus on civic responsibility, national values and leadership development.

The second phase will cover career mapping, financial literacy, business planning and access to finance, alongside a structured career day programme.

The final two weeks will provide specialised training based on each corps member’s chosen career stream, academic background and skills.

The government has introduced 11 specialised streams for corps members: Agric Corps, Medical Corps, Education Corps, Tech and Digital Corps, Legal Corps, Public Service Corps, Infrastructure Corps, Green Corps, Enterprise Corps, Creative Economy Corps, and Paramilitary and Security Corps.

Officials say the new structure will allow graduates to select career paths that match their interests and qualifications while equipping them with practical skills for employment and entrepreneurship.

The NYSC was established on May 22, 1973, following the Nigerian Civil War to promote national unity and foster stronger ties among Nigerian youths. The scheme is currently headed by Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu.