LOCAL

THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT HAS STARTED AN OVERHAUL OF THE NYSC SCHEME, WITH PLANS TO BRIDGE GAPS IN EDUCATION AND HEALTHCARE.
The Federal Government has formed the committee to carry out major changes to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), with the goal of strengthening the scheme, enhancing its contribution to national development, and better meeting the needs of Nigerian youth.
The committee was inaugurated in Abuja on Tuesday, with key representatives from government, civil society, and the private sector in attendance. This move follows growing concerns about the safety of corps members, inadequate facilities, and the NYSC's relevance in today’s socio-economic landscape.
The Federal Government has formed a committee to implement major changes to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), with the goal of strengthening the scheme, enhancing its contribution to national development, and better meeting the needs of Nigerian youth.
This decision follows growing concerns about the safety of corps members, inadequate facilities, and whether the NYSC still fits into today’s social and economic realities. The inauguration of the committee took place in Abuja on Tuesday, with key figures from government, civil society, and private businesses in attendance.
“The outcome of this review must align with broader national development objectives, positioning the NYSC as a strategic tool for youth empowerment and nation-building,” he further said.
The committee will review current NYSC policies, consult with people across the country, and propose changes to laws, policies, and the overall operation of the scheme. It will also suggest improved methods for funding, tracking, and enhancing the NYSC. The final report is expected to be submitted to the minister within a set time.
At the event, Minister of Education Maruf Tunji Alausa shared that the government planned to introduce a Teachers’ Corps and a Medical Corps. These initiatives will target NCE graduates and healthcare workers willing to serve in rural areas.
Alausa explained, “The Teachers’ Corps would help bridge educational gaps and create a pathway to government employment, while the Medical Corps would strengthen healthcare delivery in underserved areas, addressing critical issues such as maternal and child health.”
Hadiza Usman, the Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination, emphasized the importance of enhancing technical and vocational skills training. She said, “such alignment would empower young people to make meaningful, long-term contributions to their communities and to the nation as a whole.”
"This represents a significant development in our ongoing coverage of current events."— Editorial Board