The Federal Executive Council of Nigeria has approved the extension of the NYSC orientation camp from the usual three weeks to six weeks. Announcing the development in a statement issued on Monday, June 29, 2026, the Minister of Youth Development, Olawande Ayodele, said: “I am happy to report that the Federal Executive Council today approved the comprehensive reform of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), the first holistic review of the Scheme in its 53-year history,” the minister said.

The extension of the orientation camp is to adequately train corps members in digital, leadership, and entrepreneurial skills, in response to the unemployment rate in the country.

Since its 53 years of existence, this is the first time the scheme has undergone scrutiny and reforms have been made. Aside from the extension of the camp, the FEC also approved other reforms to take effect immediately. The uniform of corps members will be changed and redesigned.

The camp exercise will now be led by a civilian, and not a military general. This subsequently means that every form of military drill and paramilitary orientation during the orientation camp will be scrapped. The Passing Out Parade (POP) will be replaced by a graduation ceremony.

It was also noted that corps members will be posted based on their skills and qualifications, as well as the urgent need for those skills and qualifications in each state. However, the government assured the public that the deployment of corps members will now prioritize security and safety.

Finally, on the list of reforms, the call-up process will become more digital and transparent, thereby allowing applicants nationwide to access their call-up numbers from the comfort of their locations. Although the FEC has approved these reforms, the National Assembly needs to amend the NYSC Act before they can take effect.