The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has signalled its readiness to embrace reforms aimed at tackling emerging national challenges and enhancing its role in Nigeria’s development.
Brig. Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, Director-General of the NYSC, made the announcement on Monday during the opening of the 2026 NYSC Annual Management Conference in Jos, Plateau State. He noted that the scheme has evolved beyond symbolic nation-building and is now focused on creating measurable impact across the country.
“The key question is no longer about relevance, but how we can deliberately deploy the collective energy, skill, and patriotism of our members to address current challenges and develop sustainable solutions,” Nafiu said.
He highlighted the need for the scheme to adapt to shifting population dynamics, security realities, and technological advancements. “Our internal review shows we must embrace change and continuous growth. Management is committed to reforms that strengthen systems, improve service delivery, and align our operations with current realities,” he added.
Nafiu urged conference participants to critically evaluate operational frameworks, share experiences, and propose innovative strategies to enhance the NYSC’s performance and national impact. He also praised President Bola Tinubu and Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang for their ongoing support.
Governor Mutfwang, represented by Deputy Governor Josephine Piyo, commended the NYSC for its contributions to national development and announced the renovation of the NYSC orientation camp in Mangu Local Government Area. Additional land has been allocated to the camp for agricultural activities, with plans underway to host the 2026 Batch ‘B’ orientation exercise at the facility.
The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, was also recognised for his guidance and commitment to advancing the objectives of the NYSC.
The conference, themed “NYSC as a catalyst for national development: Tackling present challenges and charting sustainable solutions,” is set to generate actionable strategies aimed at strengthening the scheme’s effectiveness and impact across Nigeria.
