Philip Agbese, Deputy Spokesperson for the House of Representatives, has formally requested that President Bola Tinubu pause the Federal Government’s planned modifications to the National Youth Service Corps. Representing the Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency, Agbese emphasized that such significant changes demand extensive deliberation with diverse stakeholders.
These proposals, introduced by Minister of Youth Development Ayodele Olawande, mark the most significant review of the program since its 1973 inception. The suggested updates involve dividing orientation camps into three stages, creating 11 distinct career tracks, and switching from traditional khaki uniforms to locally produced clothing. Furthermore, the plan includes replacing military leadership with a civilian Director-General.
Agbese, who serves on the House Committees on Youth and Defence, cautioned against undermining the program’s core mission of fostering national unity and development. He specifically objected to the proposal of ending military leadership, arguing that it instills essential discipline and patriotism. He urged the President to assemble a diverse review committee, including security professionals and former officials, to evaluate these changes thoroughly before any action is taken.
