The Federal Government has approved a broad reform package for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), introducing civilian operational leadership for the first time in more than five decades while retaining military support for the security of corps members nationwide.
The decisions were endorsed during the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting held in Abuja on Monday as part of efforts to reposition the scheme into a more productive and skills-oriented national programme aligned with the administration’s economic development goals.
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Under the new framework, the government plans to modernise the mobilisation process through technology-based call-up procedures and introduce deployment measures designed to better address security concerns affecting corps members.
A redesigned six-week orientation programme also forms part of the reforms, with increased focus on leadership development, entrepreneurship, digital competence and specialised career pathways.
According to details of the approved changes, corps members will also receive primary assignments that better match their academic qualifications and professional interests to improve relevance and long-term impact.
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The government further approved a revised governance structure that transfers operational leadership to civilian management while maintaining military involvement in safeguarding participants.
Other changes include upgrading orientation camps through a national grading and certification system, introducing a formal graduation ceremony in place of the traditional Passing Out Parade, and redesigning the NYSC uniform to project professionalism and strengthen national identity.
A government statement said the reforms are intended to reshape the scheme into a platform that promotes productivity, innovation and youth empowerment.
“The approved reforms are designed to transform the NYSC into a skills-focused and productivity-driven institution that supports the Federal Government’s broader economic agenda,” the statement noted.
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, and the Minister of Youth, Ayodele Olawande, to begin the process of amending the NYSC Act and relevant regulations to accommodate the new reforms.
“The amendments will provide the legal framework required for the immediate implementation of the approved changes,” the statement added.
