President Bola Tinubu has approved a comprehensive reform of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), introducing far-reaching changes aimed at modernising the scheme, improving corps members’ welfare, and aligning the programme with current national development goals.

As part of the reforms, the NYSC will now be led operationally by civilians, while the military will continue to provide security support for corps members across the country.

The President also directed the Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, and the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, to amend the NYSC Act and relevant regulations to reflect the approved changes and ensure their immediate implementation.

The reforms include the introduction of a technology-driven call-up process, a risk-sensitive deployment system to enhance the safety of corps members, and a redesigned six-week orientation programme with a stronger focus on leadership, entrepreneurship, digital skills, and specialised career pathways.

The new framework also provides for skills-based primary assignments that align with graduates’ academic backgrounds and career aspirations, improved orientation camp standards through a national grading and certification system, and a redesigned NYSC uniform to reflect professionalism and national pride.

In addition, the traditional Passing Out Parade will be replaced with a new graduation ceremony as part of the comprehensive restructuring of the scheme.