Tinubu Explains Why His Administration Approved Major NYSC Reforms

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

The President made the statement on Wednesday in a post shared on his official X account, shortly after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved what he described as the most significant reforms to the NYSC scheme since it was established in 1973.

According to Tinubu, the reforms are part of his administration's commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for young people. He recalled the promise he made during his inauguration to give priority to Nigerian youths and women, stating that the new NYSC reforms are one of the steps taken to fulfil that pledge.

The President noted that the NYSC has played an important role in promoting national unity for over five decades, adding that this objective remains valuable and will continue to be protected.

However, Tinubu stressed that the country has changed significantly since the scheme was created, making it necessary to modernise the programme to meet current realities and future challenges.

He explained that the reforms are designed to ensure that corps members gain practical knowledge and relevant skills that will improve their employability, encourage entrepreneurship, and enable them to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria's economic growth and national development.

Tinubu also highlighted the importance of Nigeria's youthful population, noting that young people make up nearly 70 percent of the country's population. He said Nigerian youths should not be seen as a burden but as the driving force behind the nation's future, describing them as the engine of growth, innovation, and progress.

The President expressed confidence that the approved reforms would strengthen the NYSC scheme while empowering young Nigerians with the skills and opportunities needed to build a better future for themselves and the country.