By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Federal Executive Council (FEC), led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has approved a comprehensive reform of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). The decision was announced on Monday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja by the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande. The reforms aim to modernise the 53-year-old scheme through legislative changes, digital transformation, improved funding, and youth empowerment initiatives.
FEC Approves Comprehensive NYSC Reform
The Federal Government described the reform as the most significant review of the NYSC since its establishment in 1973.
Speaking after the FEC meeting, Olawande said the government approved a complete overhaul of the scheme to align it with Nigeria’s current realities and national development goals.
According to him, the reforms will strengthen the NYSC while improving its relevance to today’s youth.
Government to Review NYSC Act
As part of the reforms, the government will update the NYSC Act through a legislative review.
The proposed changes will provide a stronger legal framework for the scheme and support its modernisation.
Additionally, the Federal Government will back the proposed NYSC Trust Fund Bill. The bill seeks to improve orientation camp infrastructure and provide startup capital for corps members after completing national service.
Digital Transformation to Improve NYSC Operations
The government also approved a comprehensive digital transformation of the NYSC.
The initiative will replace the scheme’s largely manual and centralised processes with a unified digital command platform.
Furthermore, prospective corps members must now present a compliance certificate from the Nigeria Education Repository and Databank (NERD) before mobilisation.
Officials believe the measure will improve transparency and strengthen the verification process.
₦2 Billion Innovation Fund for Corps Members
The reform package includes a ₦2 billion NYSC Innovation Fund.
The fund will support entrepreneurship, innovation, and skills development among corps members.
In addition, the government will establish zonal innovation hubs to provide mentorship, business support, and easier access to funding.
The initiative aims to prepare young Nigerians for self-employment and wealth creation.
New Funding Structure for NYSC
The Federal Government also approved a new co-funding model for the scheme.
Under the arrangement, the federal, state, and local governments will jointly fund NYSC operations.
According to Olawande, the new structure will reduce dependence on the Federal Government while ensuring sustainable financing.
Why the Government is Reforming NYSC
The NYSC was established in 1973 to promote national unity and reconciliation after the Nigerian Civil War.
For over five decades, the scheme has encouraged cultural integration by posting graduates across Nigeria.
However, Olawande said the country’s needs have changed significantly.
“Our needs as a country have changed, and many expect the objectives of NYSC to also change,” he said.
He noted that the reforms will reposition the scheme to meet the aspirations of modern Nigerian youths while supporting national development.
