President Tinubu explains reasons behind NYSC reforms

President Bola Tinubu has explained why his administration approved the recent reforms to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), saying the changes are aimed at equipping young Nigerians with practical skills and preparing them for national development.

The President made the clarification in a statement shared on his verified X handle on Wednesday, describing the reforms as part of his administration’s commitment to creating better opportunities for youths.

Tinubu said the changes, which were approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) on Monday, represent the most significant restructuring of the NYSC since the scheme was established in 1973.

“On Monday, at the Federal Executive Council, our administration approved the most consequential reforms of the National Youth Service Corps Scheme since its establishment in 1973,” he said.

The President recalled his promise during his inauguration to create meaningful opportunities for young Nigerians, adding that the reforms reflect that commitment.

“On the day I was sworn in as your President, I promised to create meaningful opportunities for our young people. I said women and youth would feature prominently in our administration, and this reform is partly the actualisation of that promise,” Tinubu stated.

He acknowledged the role the NYSC has played in promoting national unity for over five decades but noted that the country’s current realities require the scheme to evolve.

“For 53 years, the NYSC has served the cause of national unity. That mission remains important and must be preserved. But the Nigeria of today demands more,” he added.

The reforms include measures aimed at making the scheme more skills-focused and aligned with youth empowerment, employment opportunities and economic development.