President Bola Tinubu has explained why his administration approved the recent reforms to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), saying the changes are designed to better prepare young Nigerians for the future.
In a statement shared on Wednesday, Tinubu said the reforms will equip corps members with practical skills while creating more opportunities for them to contribute to Nigeria’s development.
The reforms were approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) on Monday and are being described as the biggest changes to the NYSC since it was established in 1973.
According to the President, the decision is part of the promise he made to Nigerians when he assumed office.
“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.
“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 said.
The President also acknowledged the role the NYSC has played in promoting national unity over the past five decades but noted that the programme must evolve to meet the needs of today’s Nigeria.
“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.
