Nigerian Lawmaker Calls for Delay of NYSC Reforms While Government Seeks First Major Update in 50 Years

Philip Agbese, deputy spokesperson of Nigeria's House of Representatives, appealed on 6 July 2026 to President Bola Tinubu to suspend implementation of proposed National Youth Service Corps reforms. AllAfrica reported that Agbese, who represents Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency of Benue State, issued the statement in Abuja.

Agbese, a member of the House Committees on Youth and Defence, said reforms should follow extensive consultations with lawmakers, security experts, former NYSC officials, youth organisations and other stakeholders.

He argued that changes must preserve the scheme's founding objectives of promoting national unity, discipline and patriotism. The lawmaker opposed several elements of the package unveiled by the federal government, including replacement of the military director-general with a civilian and reduction of the programme to a skill acquisition training centre.

"Reducing NYSC to a skill acquisition training centre is not healthy for our national life," he said.

He added that instilling military training in citizens is an international practice that must be sustained. Agbese noted that the NYSC has deployed corps members to critical sectors during emergencies, including education, healthcare, elections and other public service interventions. He called for a broader review committee before any changes take effect.

The federal government described the reforms as the first major review since the scheme's establishment more than five decades ago. Minister of Youth Development Ayodele Olawande said the measures aim to modernise the NYSC and align it with current economic and national development priorities.