The Federal Government has overhauled the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to make it a skills-driven platform for youth empowerment and national development.
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has commended the move, saying it aligns with the Federal Government's vision of building a $1 trillion economy.
According to him, the reform is designed to provide graduates with practical skills tailored to their academic backgrounds, career interests, and the needs of Nigeria's workforce.
The NYSC was established by Decree No. 24 of May 22, 1973, to promote reconciliation, national integration, and the development of common ties among Nigerian youths after the Nigerian Civil War.
The overhaul includes the introduction of 12 new service streams, which include Agriculture Corps, Medical Corps, Education Corps, Tech and Digital Corps, Legal Corps, Public Service Corps, Infrastructure Corps, Green Corps, Enterprise Corps, Creative Economy Corps, and Paramilitary and Security Corps.
Mr Oyintiloye said that participants would receive specialised training during the orientation programme, equipping them with practical knowledge and competencies relevant to their careers and national service.
The new framework is expected to enhance the scheme's relevance to Nigeria's current developmental needs while preserving its core objective of fostering national unity.
The APC chieftain expressed confidence that the new framework would reduce youth unemployment by prioritising skill acquisition and preparing graduates for productive engagement in key sectors of the economy.
The overhaul is a strategic shift from the traditional service model to one that emphasises skills acquisition, innovation, and sector-specific development.
According to Mr Oyintiloye, the policy marks a significant milestone in the history of the NYSC, which was established 53 years ago.
The NYSC has been a crucial platform for Nigerian youths to acquire skills and experience, particularly in the areas of agriculture, education, healthcare, and infrastructure development.
However, the scheme has faced several challenges, including corruption, inefficiency, and lack of relevance to the needs of the Nigerian economy.
The Federal Government's overhaul of the NYSC is aimed at addressing these challenges and positioning the scheme as a key driver of youth empowerment and national development.
The new framework is expected to equip Nigerian youths with the skills and competencies required to drive economic growth, create employment opportunities, and support sustainable development.
The overhaul is also expected to promote national unity and integration by providing a platform for Nigerian youths to work together and develop a common vision for the country's future.
The APC chieftain commended the Federal Government for the bold initiative, saying it reflects the President's commitment to youth development, job creation, and sustainable economic growth.