Youth Ministry proposes reforms to strengthen NYSC for future challenges, opportunities

By Kunle Sanni

Minister of Youth Development, Jamila Bio-Ibrahim, has announced proposed reforms for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) aimed at enhancing the scheme’s capacity to address emerging challenges and leverage new opportunities.

The announcement was made during the submission of the NYSC Reform Committee’s report at her office.

Ibrahim commended the NYSC for its pivotal role in fostering national unity, promoting development, and empowering Nigerian youth since its establishment. She emphasized that, like all reputable institutions, the NYSC must continuously evolve to remain effective and relevant in an ever-changing society.

The Minister expressed her gratitude to the committee members, led by Oyekunle Oyekanmi, for their dedication in producing the reform report. She praised their commitment to envisioning a future-ready NYSC, noting the significant task they undertook since July.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, represented by Prince Momoh Olugbenga, Director for Enterprise Development and Promotion, also commended the committee’s thorough approach. He highlighted that their recommendations provide a clear roadmap for making the NYSC more resilient and impactful.

He reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to translating these recommendations into actionable reforms, ensuring the sustainability and effectiveness of the scheme.

In his address, Oyekanmi recounted the committee’s mandate to evaluate the NYSC and propose strategies for making it self-sufficient and competitive on a global scale.

The committee’s 31-page report outlines recommendations focused on making the NYSC financially independent and enhancing corps members’ training to increase their employability.

The proposed reforms are expected to ensure that the NYSC remains a cornerstone of youth development and national service in Nigeria for years to come.