NYSC set for major shake-up as FEC approves comprehensive reforms

The Federal Executive Council (FEC), chaired by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has approved a far-reaching reform of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), marking the first comprehensive review of the scheme since it was established 53 years ago.

The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, announced the decision on Monday after the FEC meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, saying the reforms are aimed at repositioning the NYSC to meet Nigeria’s evolving development needs.

Olawande explained that although the NYSC has played a significant role in promoting national unity since its establishment in 1973 by bringing together graduates from different parts of the country, changing realities have made a comprehensive overhaul necessary.

“Our needs as a country have changed, and many expect the objectives of the NYSC to also change,” the minister said.

As part of the approved reforms, corps members will receive a redesigned uniform intended to reflect professionalism and national identity. The government also approved a new graduation ceremony to replace the traditional Passing Out Parade.

Other key changes include a fully digital call-up process, risk-sensitive deployment of corps members to enhance their safety, and a revamped six-week orientation programme that will focus more on leadership development, entrepreneurship, digital literacy and specialised career training.

The reforms also introduce skills-based primary assignments that align with graduates’ academic qualifications, a national grading and certification system to improve standards across orientation camps, and a new governance structure that places civilian leadership in charge of operations while retaining military support for security.

According to Olawande, the review process began in 2025 and involved extensive consultations with relevant stakeholders. He said the reforms are designed to transform the NYSC into a productivity-driven and skills-focused institution that supports the Federal Government’s economic agenda.

“For over five decades, the NYSC has remained a powerful symbol of national unity and service. Today, we have taken a bold step to preserve that legacy while preparing it for the future,” he said.

To give legal backing to the reforms, the Federal Executive Council directed the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Ministry of Youth Development to immediately begin the process of amending the NYSC Act and other relevant regulations.