An All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has expressed support for the Federal Government’s planned reform of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), saying the initiative will empower young Nigerians and contribute to the country’s $1 trillion economy target.
Oyintiloye said the proposed changes would equip graduates with practical skills, improve their employability and prepare them to contribute meaningfully to national development.
Reform Will Equip Graduates With Practical Skills
Speaking in a statement on Saturday, the APC chieftain said the reform marks a major shift from the traditional NYSC model.
According to him, the new approach will focus on skills development, innovation and entrepreneurship.
“The reform will strengthen human capital development by equipping graduates with marketable skills to boost productivity, create employment opportunities and support economic growth.”
He added that graduates would become better prepared for the labour market instead of relying solely on white-collar jobs.
Specialised Service Streams to Drive Productivity
Oyintiloye said the restructured scheme would introduce specialised service streams that align with graduates’ academic backgrounds and career interests.
He explained that the initiative would help corps members gain relevant experience while supporting critical sectors of the economy.
In addition, he noted that the reform would encourage innovation and improve productivity across different industries.
Reform Can Reduce Youth Unemployment
The APC chieftain also expressed confidence that the new model would help reduce youth unemployment.
He said many graduates possess academic qualifications but lack the practical skills employers require.
“When young people acquire relevant skills during service, they become job creators instead of job seekers.”
He therefore urged stakeholders to support the implementation of the reform for the benefit of Nigerian youths.
FG Targets Skills-Driven NYSC
The Federal Executive Council recently approved a comprehensive overhaul of the NYSC, marking the first major reform of the scheme in more than 50 years.
The new framework seeks to transform the programme into a civilian-led, skills-driven institution that supports entrepreneurship, innovation and national productivity.
Ultimately, the government hopes the reform will strengthen human capital development and accelerate progress towards its $1 trillion economy target.
