Former Kaduna Central Senator Shehu Sani says the National Youth Service Corps should continue to be headed by a military officer, arguing that Nigeria needs tougher military training for corps members. Reacting to the planned overhaul of the scheme, Sani said introducing reforms should not come at the expense of the military orientation that has […]
Former Kaduna Central Senator Shehu Sani says the National Youth Service Corps should continue to be headed by a military officer, arguing that Nigeria needs tougher military training for corps members.
Reacting to the planned overhaul of the scheme, Sani said introducing reforms should not come at the expense of the military orientation that has long formed part of the programme.
He argued that appointing a civilian as Director General would weaken the NYSC’s structure at a time when Nigeria continues to battle serious security threats.
The former senator maintained that corps members should receive more intensive military training to prepare them for the country’s evolving security realities.
His reaction comes after President Bola Tinubu approved sweeping reforms that will place the NYSC under civilian administration while allowing the military to continue providing security support nationwide.
The reforms also introduce digital mobilisation, enhanced safety measures and a six week training curriculum that places greater emphasis on leadership, entrepreneurship, digital innovation and career development. President Tinubu further directed the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, and the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, to amend the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Act and related regulations to facilitate the implementation of the reforms.