The Progressives Forum (TPF) has commended the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Hon. Ayodele Olawande, for the landmark reforms approved for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), describing them as the most comprehensive transformation of the Scheme since its establishment 53 years ago.
In a statement signed by its National Chairman, Abuh Andrew Abuh, the Forum said the reforms reflect the Renewed Hope administration’s commitment to repositioning Nigerian youths as drivers of national development, innovation and economic growth.
TPF noted with pride that Olawande, a longstanding member of the Forum who served as its Ondo State Coordinator between 2014 and 2023, has continued to distinguish himself in public office through visionary leadership and impactful youth-focused policies.
According to the statement, “The Progressives Forum is immensely proud of one of its own. Hon. Ayodele Olawande has demonstrated that public office is a platform for service, innovation and measurable impact. His performance as Minister of Youth Development has justified the confidence reposed in him by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
The Forum described the newly approved reforms as a major milestone in the evolution of the NYSC, saying they will transform the Scheme from a traditional national service programme into a modern institution that equips young Nigerians with the skills, knowledge and experience required to thrive in today’s economy.
It noted that the reforms—which include a technology-driven call-up process, risk-sensitive deployment to improve corps members’ safety, a redesigned orientation programme with greater emphasis on digital literacy, entrepreneurship and leadership, skills-based primary assignments, improved orientation camp facilities and strengthened governance structures—represent the first comprehensive review of the Scheme since its creation.
According to TPF, the reforms are designed to make the NYSC more relevant to the demands of the 21st-century economy while preserving its core objective of promoting national unity and integration.
“These reforms represent a deliberate investment in Nigeria’s greatest asset—its young people. They demonstrate a clear understanding of the aspirations of Nigerian youths and position the NYSC as a strategic platform for developing innovators, entrepreneurs, professionals and future leaders capable of driving national development.”
The Forum further observed that under Olawande’s leadership, the Ministry of Youth Development has continued to implement policies aimed at expanding opportunities for youth empowerment, skills acquisition, innovation, enterprise development and economic inclusion in line with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
TPF also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing the leadership and political support that made the historic reforms possible.
“The President deserves recognition for entrusting the nation’s youth portfolio to a capable, energetic and visionary young leader. The approval of these reforms by the Federal Executive Council demonstrates the administration’s commitment to equipping Nigerian youths with the knowledge, skills and opportunities needed to compete and succeed in an increasingly competitive global economy.”
The Forum called on state governments, educational institutions, development partners, the private sector and other stakeholders to support the effective implementation of the reforms to ensure that their full benefits are realised across the country.
TPF reaffirmed its confidence in Hon. Ayodele Olawande’s leadership and expressed optimism that he would continue to champion bold reforms and innovative policies that improve the lives of young Nigerians while contributing to the country’s long-term growth, unity and prosperity.
