Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has cautioned against the proposed comprehensive reform of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), warning that some planned changes could undermine the scheme’s core objectives and weaken Nigeria’s national defence policy.

Agbese, who represents the Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency of Benue State, called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to suspend the implementation of the reforms and to constitute a broader committee to undertake a comprehensive review.

He described the NYSC as a vital national institution that has played a significant role in promoting unity and integration across Nigeria, stressing that any restructuring should preserve its founding ideals.

Among the proposed reforms are dividing the orientation camp into three phases, introducing 11 specialised career streams from which prospective corps members would choose during registration, expanding skills acquisition programmes, replacing the traditional khaki uniform with locally produced attire, and appointing a civilian to head the scheme instead of a military officer.

The proposed changes have sparked mixed reactions, with stakeholders divided over whether they would strengthen or dilute the NYSC’s original mandate.

Reacting to the proposals, Agbese said that while efforts to modernise the scheme are commendable, they should not come at the expense of its national integration and security objectives.

According to him, “Reducing NYSC to a skill acquisition training centre is not healthy for our national life,” adding that beyond its role in youth development, the NYSC has, over the years, served as a strategic national institution, particularly during emergencies, by deploying corps members to support critical sectors, including education, healthcare and electoral services.

The lawmaker also expressed reservations about the proposal to place the scheme under civilian leadership, insisting that the military tradition embedded in the orientation programme has contributed significantly to discipline, patriotism and national preparedness.

He appealed to the President to establish an expanded committee comprising security experts, lawmakers, former NYSC officials, youth groups and other critical stakeholders to undertake a more extensive review before any reforms are implemented.

The NYSC was established on May 22, 1973, by the military administration of General Yakubu Gowon as part of the post-Civil War reconciliation programme aimed at promoting national unity, rebuilding trust among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups and fostering a shared sense of nationhood. (The Nation)

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