As the Federal Government signals its intention to reform the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), key stakeholders across the country are calling for a more practical, skill-driven, and safer approach to the iconic youth programme.
Concerns over the security of corps members, especially in volatile regions, alongside growing demand for a more development-focused framework have reignited national conversations on the relevance and structure of the NYSC in today’s Nigeria.
Parents, educationists, youth development experts, and former corps members are urging the government to implement reforms that not only safeguard participants but also enhance the programme’s impact on unemployment, national unity, and youth empowerment.
The NYSC, established in 1973 to promote national integration and social cohesion after the civil war, has evolved through the decades.
However, recent security challenges and changing economic realities have brought the structure and sustainability of the programme under scrutiny.
The Federal Government, in a recent move, has begun discussions toward revising the NYSC Act to better align with the aspirations of Nigeria’s youth and the country’s development priorities.
LEADERSHIP recalls that the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, recently held talks with the Director-General of NYSC, Brigadier General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu; the Minister of Youth, Ayodele Olawande; and other key stakeholders to kick-start the reform process.
Dr. Alausa described the initiative as a crucial step in transforming the NYSC into a more dynamic and impactful institution that reflects the realities of modern Nigeria.
“We are collectively committed to ensuring that NYSC evolves into a more dynamic, responsive, and impactful institution, one that is aligned not just with national development goals but also with the current realities and aspirations of Nigeria’s young people,” he said.
He further revealed that proposals under consideration include an optional two-year Medical Corps and Teacher Corps. These specialised arms of the NYSC would deploy doctors, nurses, pharmacists, dentists, and educators to underserved rural areas, addressing critical gaps in healthcare and education.
“Our belief is that these reforms will elevate the NYSC into a strategic institution that not only fosters unity but also delivers tangible value to both the nation and the individuals who serve,” Alausa added.
While the initiative has been welcomed in some quarters, it has also drawn reactions from concerned citizens who insist that reforms must go beyond structure and policy, but ensure safety and practical value.
Chuka Nwbuogor, a research and development expert, emphasised the need for a skills-based framework that reflects the evolving global landscape.
“Reviewing the current NYSC setup and aligning it with today’s realities is long overdue. The NYSC should be a service and skill-based development launch pad for Nigerian youth, with different tracks in Tech, Education, Medicine, Entertainment, Entrepreneurship, and Agriculture,” he said.
He noted that with the right reforms, NYSC could become a platform for creating jobs and fostering innovation rather than just a mandatory year of national service.
Evelyn Moji, an ex-corps member, added that security must take precedence in the reform process. She recounted the fear and uncertainty she experienced during her deployment to a restive region.
“I think the government should consider other factors like security. No parent would want his or her ward posted to an area where human lives are constantly at risk. Crisis-prone areas should be totally removed from NYSC postings,” she argued.
Lawrence Ade, an educationist, reiterated the same concern, urging the federal government to make the safety and welfare of corps members its top priority.
“The government must consider all these possibilities and kindly prioritise how to ensure the safety and security of corps members during service. NYSC must exercise more duty of care in this regard and improve their general welfare,” he said.
For many Nigerians, the time has come for NYSC to reflect the pressing needs of a youthful population facing limited job opportunities and increasing insecurity.
Stakeholders also believe that with the right reforms, the scheme could serve as a bridge between education and employment, empowering young Nigerians with practical experience and valuable skills.
They argued that these proposed changes, if fully implemented, may also restore confidence in the programme and reinforce its original goals of unity, patriotism, and service.
Speaking on the matter, Mrs. Grace Okon, a parent who resids in Abuja, welcomed the idea to review the scheme.
“The NYSC is a noble idea, but the government must put action behind these words. It’s no longer just about serving Nigeria, but about surviving it. We want a system that prepares our children for the future, not one that puts them at risk. If these reforms bring real change, then we’ll support them wholeheartedly,” she said.
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