Minister of Youth Development Unveils Key Reforms to Revitalize NYSC, Ensure Future Impact

Maryam Aminu

In a significant move to modernize and sustain the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Dr. Jamila Bio-Ibrahim, the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, has announced the submission of a comprehensive reform report aimed at enhancing the scheme’s adaptability and relevance in the face of evolving challenges and opportunities.

Speaking during the presentation of the NYSC Reform Committee’s draft report on October 8, 2024, in Abuja, Dr. Ibrahim emphasized that the changes would not only strengthen the scheme but also ensure its impact is felt for many years to come.

The reforms are designed to make the NYSC self-sufficient and profitable, with a core focus on improving the quality of training for corps members and enabling the scheme to compete globally with other youth organizations.

Dr. Ibrahim praised the dedication of the committee, chaired by Mr. Oyekunle Oyekanmi, which has worked for months to appraise the current state of the NYSC and propose actionable solutions.

Dr. Ibrahim noted the NYSC’s historical role in fostering national unity and youth empowerment but stressed the need for it to evolve in response to modern societal needs.

“Like any reputable institution, the NYSC must adapt and evolve to effectively tackle the constantly changing challenges and opportunities in society,” she said.

The 31-page report presented by the reform committee outlines strategies to ensure the NYSC’s sustainability.

From left: Director-General, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig. -Gen. Yusha’u Ahmed; Minister of Youth Development, Dr Jamila Bio-Ibrahim; Chairman of the NYSC Reforms Committee, Kabir Oyekunle; and the Deputy Chairman, NYSC Reforms Committee, Mrs Bintu Garba, during the submission of the NYSC Reforms Committee report to the Minister in Abuja on Tuesday (8/10/24).

Key recommendations include enhancing skills development for corps members, improving partnerships with private sector organizations, and creating avenues for self-sufficiency.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Olubunmi Olasanya, represented by Director Prince Momoh Olugbenga, assured stakeholders that it would take swift action to implement the recommendations.

“The task ahead of us is now to take these recommendations and turn them into actionable reforms,” Olugbenga stated.

As the Ministry prepares to move forward with the reform agenda, the NYSC is set to enter a new era of growth and innovation, promising to offer young Nigerians greater opportunities for professional development while contributing to national progress.