The Federal Executive Council has approved a comprehensive reform of the National Youth Service Corps, introducing major changes, including a redesigned uniform, a graduation ceremony to replace the traditional Passing Out Parade and a technology-driven mobilisation process.
The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, announced the approval on Monday via his X handle, describing the reforms as the first comprehensive review of the scheme since its establishment 53 years ago.
According to the minister, the overhaul is aimed at preserving the NYSC’s role in promoting national unity while repositioning it as a platform that equips young Nigerians with relevant skills, practical experience and opportunities for national development.
He said the reforms align with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of building a $1tn economy through youth empowerment, innovation and productivity.
“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,” Olawande stated.
Among the reforms approved by the council is the introduction of a technology-driven call-up process to improve efficiency and transparency in the mobilisation of prospective corps members.
The government also approved a risk-sensitive deployment policy designed to enhance the safety and security of corps members during their service year.
The six-week orientation programme will also be redesigned to place greater emphasis on leadership development, entrepreneurship, digital skills acquisition and specialised career pathways.
In addition, corps members will now be assigned to places of primary assignment based on their academic qualifications, professional skills and career aspirations to improve productivity and enhance their contributions to national development.
The reform package also provides for a new governance structure that places the scheme under civilian operational leadership, while the military will continue to provide security support during orientation exercises and other activities.
To improve the quality of orientation camps nationwide, the Federal Government approved a national grading and certification system to ensure minimum operational standards across all facilities.
The council further endorsed the introduction of a graduation ceremony to replace the traditional Passing Out Parade, alongside a redesigned NYSC uniform intended to reflect professionalism, discipline and national pride.
Olawande disclosed that the reform process began in 2025 through extensive consultations involving the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, the Federal Ministry of Education and the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination.
He added that the Federal Executive Council had directed the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Ministry of Youth Development to commence the amendment of the NYSC Act and relevant regulations to provide the legal framework for implementing the approved reforms.
Describing the development as a significant investment in Nigeria’s future, the minister expressed confidence that the reforms would strengthen the relevance of the NYSC in national development.
“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,” he said.