Former Oyo State governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Adewale Kolapo Kareem (AKK), has said President Bola Tinubu’s approval of comprehensive reforms for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) is a landmark step that will empower Nigerian youths and reposition them as critical drivers of national development.

Kareem, in a statement made available to journalists on Friday, described the development as a long-awaited overhaul of the 53-year-old scheme, noting that the initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to aligning national institutions with present-day realities and global economic demands.

He stated that the reforms would strengthen the role of the NYSC as a platform for skills development, entrepreneurship and productivity, adding that the move would support the Federal Government’s vision of building a one-trillion-dollar economy.

According to him, the introduction of specialised career streams across sectors such as digital technology, infrastructure, healthcare and the creative industry would bridge the disconnect between academic learning and labour market requirements.

He maintained that the new framework would transform the service year from a routine national assignment into a productive engagement capable of equipping graduates with practical competencies and industry-relevant experience.

The APC chieftain also applauded the planned deployment of technology in the call-up process and the adoption of a risk-sensitive posting system, saying the measures would guarantee greater transparency and improve the safety of corps members.

Kareem further hailed the extension of the orientation programme to six weeks, stressing that exposing participants to financial literacy, business planning and civic responsibility would nurture a generation of self-reliant and socially conscious young Nigerians.

While commending the retention of military support for security operations within the scheme, he noted that the transition to a civilian-led administrative structure represents a modern governance approach aimed at enhancing efficiency and developmental outcomes.

He equally described the proposed replacement of the traditional passing-out parade with a competency-based graduation ceremony as a welcome innovation that would accord greater professional value to the service year.

Kareem, however, urged state governments, particularly Oyo State, to take advantage of the reforms by partnering with the Federal Government to ensure that orientation camps and local institutions are adequately prepared for the expected changes.

He expressed optimism that the initiative would help stem the tide of brain drain by creating opportunities for talented young Nigerians to contribute meaningfully to national growth and prosperity.

According to him, the reforms are not only about restructuring an institution but also about building a future in which Nigerian graduates become productive, patriotic and self-sufficient citizens.