President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has revealed why his administration authorised major modifications to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), stating that the revisions are intended to provide young Nigerians with practical skills and prepare them for national growth.

The President made this clear in a statement posted on his official X Twitter on Wednesday, only days after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved what he described as the most substantial modifications to the plan since its inception in 1973.

Tinubu stated that the measures are part of his administration’s commitment to providing real opportunities for young people and guaranteeing their greater participation in Nigeria’s growth.

He also stated that, while the NYSC has effectively fostered national unity for over five decades, the country’s changing realities necessitate a new approach that prioritises skills, creativity, and productivity.

“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.

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. Our young people are nearly 70 per cent of our population. They are not a burden to be managed… They are the engine,” he said.

According to the Federal Government, the revisions will better equip corps members for national development while also providing additional chances for Nigerian young.