The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved a wide-ranging reform of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), marking the first major restructuring of the programme since it was created 53 years ago.
The approval was granted during Monday’s FEC meeting in Abuja as part of efforts to transform the scheme into a more skills-oriented and productivity-driven institution that supports the Federal Government’s economic objectives.
One of the major changes approved is the introduction of civilian leadership for the NYSC, 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 begin amendments to the NYSC Act and related regulations to give legal effect to the reforms and support implementation.
Announcing the development on X, Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, described the decision as the first comprehensive review of the scheme since it was established.
He said, “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.”
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According to Olawande, the changes are designed to reposition the programme into “a skills-driven, productivity-focused and youth-empowering institution that aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of building a $1 trillion economy.”
He explained that the reforms will introduce a technology-based call-up process, safer and more strategic deployment of corps members, and a redesigned six-week orientation programme with stronger emphasis on leadership development, entrepreneurship, digital skills and specialised career tracks.
Other approved changes include aligning primary assignments with graduates’ academic backgrounds and career goals, improving governance through civilian operational leadership, maintaining military security support, upgrading camp facilities through a national grading and certification system, replacing the traditional Passing Out Parade with a new graduation ceremony, and introducing redesigned NYSC uniforms.
Olawande noted that the review process began in 2025 through collaboration 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 before receiving final approval.
“This is more than a reform of an institution. It is an investment in Nigeria’s greatest asset, our young people. The future of the NYSC begins now, and it is brighter, more relevant and more impactful than ever,” he added.
Established in 1973 after the Nigerian Civil War, the NYSC was created to strengthen national unity by posting graduates to states outside their regions for a compulsory one-year service.
The latest reforms represent the most extensive review of the scheme since its creation, with the Federal Government saying the changes are intended to make the programme more relevant to present-day economic and youth development realities.