FG Approves Sweeping Changes to NYSC, Introducing Digital Operations, New Leadership Structure, Enhanced Security and Career-Focused Orientation Programme After 53 Years of the Scheme’s Establishment.
The Federal Government has approved a comprehensive reform of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), marking the first major overhaul of the scheme since it was established in 1973.
The approval was granted during the Executive Council of the Federation meeting chaired by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The reforms are aimed at repositioning the scheme to better address current national needs, improve service delivery, and equip corps members with skills relevant to today’s job market.
According to the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, the reform process began in 2025 and involved extensive collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, the Federal Ministry of Education, and the Presidency.
Among the major changes approved are the introduction of a fully digital call-up system, enhanced security measures for corps members, and a redesigned six-week orientation programme that will focus on career development and specialised training based on graduates’ fields of study.
The reforms also provide for a new administrative structure that will be headed by a civilian Director-General, supported by three Executive Directors. In addition, a dedicated security directorate to be led by a military or paramilitary officer will be established to strengthen the safety of corps members across the country.
State governments are expected to play a greater role in providing and maintaining standardised orientation camp facilities nationwide. The traditional Passing-Out Parade will also be redesigned and renamed as a graduation ceremony, while a modernised NYSC uniform reflecting professionalism will be introduced.
Special Adviser to the President on Policy Coordination, Hadiza Bala Usman, said the reforms are intended to make the NYSC more relevant to present-day realities and align the scheme with Nigeria’s development priorities.
The Federal Executive Council has directed the Federal Ministry of Youth Development and the Federal Ministry of Justice to begin the process of amending the NYSC Act and other relevant regulations to give legal backing to the newly approved reforms.
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