FG to introduce two-year optional Medical Corps, Teacher Corps into NYSC

By Kunle Sanni

The federal government has announced plans to introduce an optional two-year Medical Corps and Teacher Corps under the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), aimed at addressing critical gaps in healthcare and education across the country, particularly in underserved rural areas.

The announcement followed the inauguration of the NYSC Reform Committee—a significant step toward overhauling the NYSC Act to align with current national needs and better equip Nigerian youth for meaningful contributions to development.

Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, and Special Adviser to the President on Policy Coordination, Hadiza Bala Usman, joined the Director-General of the NYSC, Brigadier General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, to formally launch the reform process.

Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Tunji Alausa, said the reforms are designed to transform the NYSC into “a more dynamic, responsive, and impactful institution” that goes beyond fostering national unity to delivering practical value to the country.

“The committee will review proposals such as an optional two-year Medical Corps and Teacher Corps, which will deploy doctors, nurses, pharmacists, dentists, and educators to rural communities,” Dr. Alausa explained.

He added that the reforms would elevate the NYSC into a strategic platform for national development while empowering young Nigerians with critical skills and experiences.

Stakeholders say the reform could help address shortages of healthcare workers and teachers in remote areas, while also providing young professionals with meaningful, service-oriented career pathways.

The NYSC Reform Committee is expected to submit its recommendations after a comprehensive review of the NYSC Act and consultations with key stakeholders.