Coalition Nation Urges Tinubu to Halt NYSC Reforms

Coalition Nation, a youth advocacy group, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to suspend proposed reforms to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). The group, led by President Abdulrahman Sani and Secretary Grace Nwafor, expressed concerns that changing the traditional structure of the NYSC could undermine its identity, which has been integral to national unity for over five decades.

They acknowledged the federal government's efforts to modernize the scheme but argued that reforms should not fundamentally alter the institution. The coalition called for the establishment of a committee, including former NYSC directors and security experts, to review the proposals before they are presented to the National Assembly.

They emphasized the importance of broader stakeholder engagement in this process. The group defended the NYSC's military component and its role during national emergencies, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, where corps members significantly contributed to healthcare efforts.

They dismissed claims that proposed reforms would enhance digital innovation, asserting that the NYSC already operates on an advanced digital administrative system.