FG reforms NYSC, replaces military leadership with civilians

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved a comprehensive reform of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), introducing a civilian-led leadership structure, a redesigned uniform and major operational changes aimed at modernising the scheme.

The approval, granted at Monday’s FEC meeting in Abuja, marks the first comprehensive review of the NYSC since its establishment 53 years ago.

Under the new arrangement, the scheme will be headed by a civilian, while the military will retain responsibility for providing security for corps members across the country.

To facilitate the reforms, the council directed the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development to amend the NYSC Act and other relevant regulations to provide the necessary legal framework for implementation.

Announcing the development on Monday via X, the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, said the reforms would transform the NYSC into a skills-driven, productivity-focused institution aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of building a $1 trillion economy.

According to the minister, the approved changes include a technology-driven call-up process, risk-sensitive deployment to improve corps members’ safety, and a revamped six-week orientation programme with greater emphasis on leadership, entrepreneurship, digital skills and specialised career pathways.

He added that corps members would now undertake skills-based primary assignments aligned with their academic qualifications and career goals.

Other reforms include improved camp facilities through a national grading and certification system, a new graduation ceremony to replace the traditional Passing Out Parade, and a redesigned NYSC uniform aimed at promoting professionalism and national pride.

Olawande said the review process began in 2025 through consultations 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 FEC approval.

He described the reforms as an investment in Nigerian youths, saying they would make the NYSC more relevant to the country’s current economic and development priorities.

Established in 1973 after the Nigerian Civil War, the NYSC was created to foster national unity by deploying graduates to states outside their regions of origin for one year of compulsory national service.