In a decisive move to revamp one of Nigeria’s most iconic youth development institutions, the Federal Government inaugurated the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Reform Committee, aimed at implementing comprehensive reforms to reposition the Scheme for greater relevance and impact.
The inauguration ceremony, held in Abuja, was presided over by the Honourable Minister for Youth Development, Mr. Olawande Ayodele. He was joined by the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, and the Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination, Hajiya Hadisa Bala Usman.
In his address, Minister Ayodele emphasized the need to critically review and strengthen the NYSC’s operations, structure, and alignment with contemporary national development priorities. He tasked the newly inaugurated committee with the responsibility of proposing transformative reforms that will make the Scheme more responsive to the aspirations of Nigerian youths.
“This initiative marks a significant step towards repositioning the NYSC as a strategic platform for youth empowerment and nation-building,” Ayodele said. “We are confident that the committee will conduct a thorough review and recommend far-reaching measures that will enhance the relevance and effectiveness of the Scheme in today’s dynamic socio-economic environment.”
He reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that the NYSC evolves into a more innovative and impactful institution, capable of meeting the changing needs of young Nigerians while contributing meaningfully to national development goals.
The NYSC Reform Committee is expected to engage with key stakeholders, assess the current state of the Scheme, and submit recommendations for its overhaul.
The move has been widely welcomed by policy experts, youth organizations, and civil society groups as a timely intervention to revitalize the nearly 52-year-old Scheme that has shaped the lives of millions of Nigerian graduates since its inception in 1973.
