The Federal Government has approved the most comprehensive reform of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) since the scheme was established over five decades ago, introducing a civilian-led leadership structure and a new skill-focused programme designed to better prepare young Nigerians for the workforce.
The landmark decision was approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) and is expected to transform the NYSC from a traditional national service programme into a platform that equips graduates with practical skills, entrepreneurship training and career opportunities.
As part of the reform, the Federal Government directed the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Federal Ministry of Youth to amend the NYSC Act and relevant regulations to accommodate the newly approved changes and ensure their immediate implementation.
One of the biggest changes is that the NYSC will now be headed by a civilian, while the military will continue to provide security for corps members during orientation camps and throughout their service year.
According to the government, the reform is aimed at aligning the NYSC with Nigeria’s economic development goals by creating a more productive, skill-driven and youth-focused institution capable of supporting the country’s ambition of building a $1 trillion economy.
Speaking on the initiative, the Special Adviser to the President on Policy Coordination, Hadiza Bala Usman, explained that the overhaul focuses on strengthening human capital development and preparing graduates for the demands of today’s labour market.
She disclosed that the orientation programme will now feature a redesigned six-week structure.
The first two weeks will focus on civic education, national values, leadership development and citizenship responsibilities.
The next phase will expose corps members to career planning, financial literacy, business development, entrepreneurship and access to funding opportunities, alongside a structured career engagement programme with employers.
During the final two weeks, corps members will receive specialised training based on their chosen career path, academic background and professional interests.
To achieve this, the government has created 11 specialised NYSC streams, allowing participants to receive targeted training in their preferred sectors.
The streams include Agriculture, Medical, Education, Technology and Digital Services, Legal Services, Public Service, Infrastructure, Green Economy, Enterprise, Creative Economy, and Paramilitary & Security.
Under the new arrangement, prospective corps members will select their preferred stream during registration, after which they will receive sector-specific training throughout their orientation programme.
Government officials said the reform represents the first comprehensive review of the NYSC in its 53-year history, adding that it is designed to improve youth employability, encourage entrepreneurship and produce graduates with skills that match Nigeria’s evolving economic needs.
The NYSC was established in 1973 to promote national unity and reconciliation after the Nigerian Civil War. It is currently headed by Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, but the newly approved reforms will usher in a civilian-led operational structure once the legal amendments are completed.
