Tinubu Explains Why Federal Government Approved Major NYSC Reforms

President Bola Tinubu has explained the reasons behind the Federal Government's major NYSC reforms, saying the changes are designed to equip young Nigerians with practical skills, improve employability and prepare them for greater contributions to national development.

In a statement shared on his official X account on Wednesday, Tinubu explains NYSC reforms as part of his administration's commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for young people across the country.

The President noted that the reforms, approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) on Monday, represent the most significant changes to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) since the scheme was established in 1973.

According to Tinubu, the reforms fulfil a promise he made during his inauguration to place women and young people at the centre of his administration's development agenda.

He acknowledged that while the NYSC has successfully promoted national unity for more than five decades, Nigeria's changing economic and social realities require a modernised programme that focuses on skills development and career readiness.

As part of the reforms, the NYSC orientation programme will be extended from three weeks to six weeks. The expanded programme will include training in civic responsibility, leadership, entrepreneurship, digital literacy, financial literacy and career development, alongside specialised instruction tailored to corps members' academic qualifications and career goals.

The President said participants will receive practical training in sectors such as agriculture, education, healthcare, technology, law, infrastructure, public service, the creative economy, the green economy, enterprise development and paramilitary and security services.

He stressed that every corps member should complete the programme better equipped for employment, entrepreneurship and national service.

Tinubu also announced new measures to improve the safety of corps members through a risk-based deployment system, particularly in security-challenged areas. Under the new policy, deployment will prioritise indigenes, residents, graduates of institutions within affected states and participants from neighbouring states in the same geopolitical zone.

The President further disclosed that the call-up process will become fully technology-driven, while primary places of assignment will be aligned more closely with each corps member's academic background, skills and career aspirations.

Under the governance reforms, the NYSC will now be headed by a civilian Director-General, supported by three Executive Directors, including a Security Services Executive Director who will come from the military or another paramilitary agency.

Orientation camps across the country will also be assessed under a national grading and certification framework, with state governments required to meet minimum operational standards.

One of the most notable changes is the replacement of the traditional Passing-Out Parade with a Graduation Ceremony, reflecting the government's view that corps members will graduate from the programme with valuable civic, professional and entrepreneurial skills rather than simply completing national service.

Tinubu commended the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, his Special Adviser on Policy and Coordination, Hadiza Bala Usman, the Federal Ministry of Education and members of the reform committee for their roles in developing the initiative.

He also directed the Federal Ministry of Youth Development and the Federal Ministry of Justice to begin the process of amending the NYSC Act and its subsidiary regulations to provide legal backing for the reforms.

The President concluded by reaffirming his administration's confidence in Nigerian youths, saying the government remains committed to building a nation that supports their talent, ambition and future.