FEC Approves New NYSC Uniform, Rolls Out Major Reforms

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved a sweeping overhaul of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), marking the first comprehensive reform of the scheme since it was established 53 years ago.

The development was announced on Monday by the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, who described the decision as a significant step toward repositioning the NYSC to better meet the demands of a changing society while maintaining its longstanding role in promoting national unity.

According to reports, the reforms are designed to transform the NYSC into a more skills-oriented, productivity-driven and youth-focused institution, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of building a one-trillion-dollar economy.

Among the key changes approved by the council is the introduction of a technology-driven call-up system alongside a risk-sensitive deployment framework aimed at enhancing the safety and security of corps members during national service.

The orientation programme will also undergo a major redesign, expanding into a six-week exercise with greater emphasis on leadership development, entrepreneurship, digital skills acquisition and specialised career pathways.

The approved reforms further provide for skills-based primary assignments that will align corps members’ postings with their academic qualifications and career ambitions, ensuring more meaningful contributions during their service year.

Additional measures include the introduction of a national grading and certification system to improve orientation camp standards, the replacement of the traditional Passing Out Parade with a formal graduation ceremony, and the unveiling of a redesigned NYSC uniform intended to reflect professionalism and national pride.

Reports indicate that the reform process commenced in 2025 through a collaborative review 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.

As part of the implementation process, the Federal Executive Council has directed the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development to begin the necessary amendments to the NYSC Act and its regulations.

Speaking on the significance of the reforms, Olawande described the initiative as more than an institutional restructuring, stating that it represents a strategic investment in Nigeria’s youth and a renewed commitment to making the NYSC more relevant, impactful and future-ready.