The Nigerian government has approved what it describes as the most comprehensive reform of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) since its establishment in 1973. The decision, announced on June 29, 2026, by the Minister of Youth Development, Jamila Bio Ibrahim, includes a 100% increase in corps members' monthly allowance, from N33,000 to N66,000, effective July 2026.
Other key changes include the introduction of a skills development program that will allow corps members to choose between traditional deployment and a new 'entrepreneurship track' focused on vocational training. The reform also reduces the mandatory service period from 12 months to 9 months for those who complete the entrepreneurship track, according to a statement from the Federal Ministry of Youth Development.
The NYSC was established in 1973 to foster national unity and rebuild the country after the civil war. The scheme has faced criticism in recent years for low allowances and limited impact on employability. The government says the reform aims to address these issues and make the program more relevant to Nigeria's economic needs.
Critics have welcomed the pay increase but question the implementation timeline and funding. The National Assembly is expected to pass a supplementary budget to cover the additional costs, which are estimated at N150 billion annually. The reform is set to take effect for the 2026 Batch C corps members, who will begin orientation in August 2026.
