The Federal Government has announced major reforms to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), aimed at transforming the scheme into a platform focused on skills acquisition, entrepreneurship and youth empowerment.
The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, who disclosed the changes, said the reform was designed to redirect the NYSC from its traditional structure towards a more productivity-driven programme that equips young Nigerians with practical skills for the labour market.
According to the minister, the new approach will place greater emphasis on vocational training, digital skills, professional development and career-focused programmes to improve the employability of corps members.
The reform package, approved by the Federal Executive Council, is expected to introduce changes including improved orientation programmes, skills-based assignments, digital transformation of NYSC operations and stronger welfare measures for corps members.
Olawande said the objective is to reposition the NYSC as an institution that not only promotes national unity but also prepares graduates for employment opportunities and entrepreneurship in a changing economy.
The Federal Government also confirmed that the one-year national service period will remain, while the structure of training and deployment will be adjusted to provide more meaningful experiences for participants.
The NYSC, established in 1973, has served as a major national integration programme, allowing Nigerian graduates to serve in different parts of the country. The latest reform represents one of the most significant reviews of the scheme since its creation.
The government said the changes are part of broader efforts to address youth unemployment and create a workforce equipped with skills relevant to Nigeria’s economic development goals.
