The Federal Executive Council on Monday, gave its approval for a comprehensive overhaul of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), including a redesign of its uniform.
This marks the first major restructuring of the scheme since it was established 53 years ago.
The reforms, approved at the FEC meeting in Abuja on Monday, are aimed at repositioning the NYSC into a skills-focused, productivity-driven institution aligned with the Federal Government’s economic agenda.
A key aspect of the reform is a change in the leadership structure of the scheme, with the NYSC set to be headed by a civilian, while the military will continue to provide security for corps members nationwide.
The council also directed the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development to amend the NYSC Act and relevant regulations to provide legal backing for the approved changes and enable their implementation.
Announcing the approval on X, the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, described the reforms as the first holistic review of the scheme in its 53-year history.
He said, “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.”
