The Federal Government has approved the replacement of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Passing Out Parade with a graduation ceremony and introduced a redesigned uniform as part of a broad reform package aimed at reshaping the scheme after more than five decades.
The announcement was made by the Minister for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, following Monday’s meeting of the Federal Executive Council, which endorsed what he described as the first comprehensive review of the NYSC since its establishment 53 years ago.
The reforms are expected to reshape the scheme into a platform that places greater emphasis on skills acquisition, productivity and career development for Nigerian youths, in line with the economic vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Among the approved changes are a technology-based call-up process, risk-sensitive deployment of corps members, a redesigned six-week orientation programme with stronger attention to leadership, entrepreneurship, digital skills and specialised career pathways, as well as primary assignments linked to participants’ academic qualifications and career interests.
The government also approved a new governance structure featuring civilian operational leadership, while the military will continue to provide security support. Orientation camps will be subjected to a national grading and certification system to improve standards across the country.
Olawande said the reform process began in 2025 through 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 before receiving the approval of the Federal Executive Council.
He said, “I am happy to report that the Federal Executive Council today approved the comprehensive reform of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), the first holistic review of the Scheme in its 53-year history.
“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. 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.”
The minister said the council had directed the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development to begin the process of amending the NYSC Act and relevant regulations to provide the legal backing needed for the implementation of the approved changes.
He added, “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.”