Reform will strengthen NYSC – Jamila Ibrahim

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Minister of Youth Development, Jamila Bio-Ibrahim, has stated that the proposed reforms for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) are designed to enhance the scheme’s ability to address both challenges and opportunities, ensuring its relevance and impact for years to come.

Omolara Esan, from the Ministry’s Information and Public Relations department, reported that the Minister made this statement during the submission of the NYSC Reforms Report by the Committee in her office.

Ibrahim emphasised that the NYSC has played a vital role in promoting national unity, fostering development, and empowering youth since its establishment.

She also noted that, like any reputable institution, the NYSC must adapt and evolve to effectively meet the ever-changing challenges and opportunities in society.

The Minister expressed her gratitude to all Committee members, chaired by Mr Oyekunle Oyekanmi, for their dedication and hard work over the past months.

She acknowledged that the mandate given in July was challenging, yet the committee embraced it with unwavering commitment.

Ibrahim highlighted that the occasion marks a significant moment as she receives the draft report, which encapsulates the Committee’s vision for the future of the National Youth Service Corps.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Olubunmi Olasanya, represented by Prince Momoh Olugbenga, the Director for Enterprise Development and Promotion, commended the Committee for their diligence and professionalism.

He noted that the extensive consultations, analyses, and recommendations presented in the report demonstrate the thoughtful and inclusive process undertaken by the Committee.

He added that the report will serve as a roadmap for making the NYSC more responsive, resilient, and impactful in the years ahead.

He stated: “The task ahead of us, as the Ministry and stakeholders of the NYSC, is now to take these recommendations and turn them into actionable reforms. We will engage all necessary channels to ensure that the proposals you have outlined are implemented in a manner that ensures the sustainability and effectiveness of the NYSC.”

In his presentation, Mr Oyekunle Oyekanmi, Chairman of the NYSC Reform Committee, recounted the formation and inauguration of the committee by the Minister on 27 July.

He explained that the committee was established to evaluate the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme and to develop recommendations aimed at transforming it into a self-sufficient and sustainable platform capable of competing with other youth organizations worldwide.

Mr Oyekanmi announced that the Reform Committee has produced a comprehensive 31-page document outlining strategies to enhance the NYSC scheme.

“These recommendations are designed to ensure the NYSC becomes not only self-sufficient and profitable but also focuses on providing improved training for corps members.”