Reps Member Urges Tinubu to Suspend NYSC Reform Plans Over National Unity Concerns
A member of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to suspend the proposed reforms to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), warning that the changes could weaken the scheme’s original purpose of promoting national unity.
The appeal comes amid growing public debate over the reform package recently approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC). While some Nigerians believe the reforms will modernise the scheme, others have expressed concerns that they may alter its founding objectives.
Lawmaker Calls for Fresh Review
In a letter reportedly addressed to President Tinubu, Agbese urged the Federal Government to pause the implementation of the reforms and establish a multidisciplinary committee to carefully review the proposals.
According to the lawmaker, the planned changes could have far-reaching consequences for national integration, security, and the unity-building role the NYSC has played for decades.
Concerns Over Key Reform Proposals
Agbese criticised several aspects of the proposed restructuring, arguing that they move the scheme away from its traditional mission.
Among the reforms he questioned are:
Transition from military to civilian leadership.
Extension of the orientation camp from three weeks to six weeks.
Replacement of the traditional NYSC khaki uniform with Adire fabric.
Introduction of a three-phase training programme.
Greater emphasis on skills-based deployment.
Full automation of the call-up process.
Formal graduation ceremonies for corps members.
He argued that presenting these measures as modernization could unintentionally weaken one of Nigeria’s strongest symbols of national unity.
Leadership Structure Raises Concerns
The lawmaker expressed particular concern over the proposal to appoint a civilian Director-General to lead the NYSC.
According to him, placing the scheme under civilian leadership while still depending on military personnel for camp security and operations could create an unclear chain of command and reduce operational efficiency.
He urged the President to reconsider the proposal and ensure any reforms preserve the values that have defined the NYSC since its establishment.
Rep member, Agbese writes Tinubu, rejects NYSC reforms, gives reasons
