FG Approves Major NYSC Reforms, Introduces Civilian Leadership and New Uniform
The Federal Government has approved sweeping reforms to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), introducing significant changes to the scheme’s leadership, orientation programme, and operations for the first time since its establishment over five decades ago.
The approval was granted during the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting held in Abuja on Monday as part of efforts to transform the NYSC into a more skills-oriented and productivity-driven institution in line with the government’s economic development agenda.
Among the key changes is the replacement of military leadership with a civilian administrator, while the military will continue to provide security support for corps members across the country.
The Council also directed the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development to amend the NYSC Act and other relevant regulations to give legal backing to the reforms.
Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, said the overhaul would reposition the scheme to equip young Nigerians with practical skills, leadership experience, entrepreneurship training, and digital competencies needed in today’s economy.
Other approved reforms include a technology-driven call-up system, safer deployment procedures, a redesigned six-week orientation camp programme, skills-based primary assignments, improved camp facilities through a national grading system, a new graduation ceremony to replace the traditional Passing Out Parade, and a redesigned NYSC uniform.
The Federal Government said the reforms are aimed at making the 53-year-old scheme more relevant to Nigeria’s current economic realities while strengthening youth empowerment and national development.
