In a move to strengthen the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, scheme, make it more useful to national growth, and better suited to the needs of the nation’s youths, the Federal Government is set to overhaul the scheme.
Already, it has set up a committee to reform the corps.
Theee have been growing concerns over the safety of corps members, poor infrastructure, and doubts about the scheme’s relevance in today’s economy
Youth Developmen Ministert, Ayodele Olawande inaugurated the committee bin Abuja on Tuesday, noting thate the NYSC sceme has united the country and empowered young people since its launch in 1973.
He however, acknowledged pressing challenges, saying, “The issues of corps members’ safety, infrastructural challenges, and the broader question of the scheme’s relevance in an increasingly dynamic socio-economic environment are among the key concerns.
“However, these challenges also present opportunities that require urgent, visionary, and determined action.”
Olawande believed that these challenges open the door for bold reforms.
He said the committee would review how the NYSC operates and recommend ways to make it safer, more innovative, and more impactful.
His words: “The outcome of this review must align with broader national development objectives, positioning the NYSC as a strategic tool for youth empowerment and nation-building” .
The committee will assess current NYSC policies, gather public input nationwide, and propose updates to laws and operations.
It will also recommend improved funding models and ways to monitor and enhance the scheme. The final report is expected within a set timeframe.
At the same event, Education Minister, Maruf Tunji Alausa, announced plans to launch a Teachers’ Corps and a Medical Corps.
These new programs will target NCE graduates and healthcare professionals willing to serve in rural areas.
“The Teachers’ Corps would help bridge educational gaps and create a pathway to government employment, while the Medical Corps would strengthen healthcare delivery in underserved areas, addressing critical issues such as maternal and child health.”
Hadiza Usman, Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination, also spoke.
She emphasized the importance of technical and vocational training.
She noted that building practical skills would allow young people to contribute meaningfully and sustainably to national growth.
