The federal government has approved a comprehensive overhaul of the National Youth Service Corps (NSYC) to make it a productivity-focused and youth-empowering institution.

The minister of youth development, Ayodele Olawande, in a statement issued on X, said the reforms were approved at the FEC meeting held in Abuja on Monday.

“I am happy to report that the Federal Executive Council today approved the comprehensive reform of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), the first holistic review of the Scheme in its 53-year history.

“For over five decades, the NYSC has remained a powerful symbol of national unity and service. Today, we have taken a bold step to preserve that legacy while preparing it for the future. We are transforming the Scheme into a platform that not only unites Nigeria but also equips our young people with the skills, experience and opportunities they need to thrive in a fast-changing world,” the minister stated.

Mr Olawande noted the reforms will reposition the NYSC as a skills-driven, productivity-focused and youth-empowering institution that aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of building a $1 trillion economy.

According to the statement, some of the landmark reforms include a technology-driven call-up process; risk-sensitive deployment to better protect corps members; and a redesigned six-week orientation programme with stronger focus on leadership, entrepreneurship, digital skills and specialised career streams. 

Others are skills-based primary assignments aligned with academic background and career pathways; modern governance with civilian operational leadership while the military continues to provide security support; improved camp standards through a national grading and certification system; and a new graduation ceremony to replace Passing Out Parade, and redesigned NYSC uniform that reflect professionalism and national pride.

Mr Olawande also disclosed the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development had been directed to commence the amendment of the NYSC Act and its regulations to give legal effect to these reforms and enable their implementation.

“This is more than a reform of an institution. It is an investment in Nigeria’s greatest asset, our young people. The future of the NYSC begins now, and it is brighter, more relevant and more impactful than ever,” the minister added.

The development came months after the federal government inaugurated NYSC Reform Committee to review existing policy documents and propose comprehensive reforms to ensure the scheme remains effective and responsive to current national needs.