馃嚦馃嚞NigeriaWest Africa
Youth group urges President Tinubu to reconsider proposed NYSC reforms
via Punch Nigeria4 min read
The Coalition for National Unity and Youth Development has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to suspend certain aspects of the proposed reforms to the National Youth Service Corps NYSC. The group warned that altering the scheme's traditional structure could weaken its role in national unity, discipline, and emergency service. While acknowledging efforts to modernize the NYSC, the coalition argued against fundamentally changing an institution that has served Nigeria for over five decades. They called for an expanded committee, including former NYSC directors-general, security experts, university administrators, and youth organizations, to review the proposals before they reach the National Assembly. The coalition emphasized that the NYSC was established as a nation-building institution and should not be reduced to merely a vocational training program. They also defended the military component of the orientation camp, highlighting its importance for discipline and civic responsibility, and noted the strategic role of corps members during national emergencies like COVID-19. The group dismissed claims that the reforms would introduce digital innovation, stating that many administrative processes are already automated, and suggested that funding is the bigger challenge. They also expressed concern over the debate surrounding changes to corps members' uniforms, underscoring the need for broader consultations. The Federal Executive Council had approved a comprehensive overhaul of th
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