Education Minister Proposes 2-Year NYSC Extension

In a bold move to address youth unemployment and promote self-reliance among Nigerian graduates, the Education Minister, Dr. Olatunji Alausa, has proposed extending the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program from one year to two years. This move aims to equip corps members with practical skills and entrepreneurial knowledge, making them job creators rather than job seekers.

The minister’s proposal seeks to extend the NYSC program to two years. The first year would focus on skills training and entrepreneurship development. The second year would be dedicated to traditional national service. The NYSC Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development Training program would be expanded. It would provide corps members with practical tools. These tools and skills would help them become self-reliant.

Alausa revealed plans to extend the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) from one year to two. This announcement was made during a courtesy visit from NYSC Director-General Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu in Abuja on Friday.

According to a statement posted on NYSC’s official Facebook page, the minister also called for the expansion of the Skill Acquisition program. The statement indicated he wants to broaden the Entrepreneurship Development Training Programme content. This is aimed at benefiting corps members.

“The minister advocated for the extension of national service from one to two years. He also proposed the expansion of NYSC Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development Training programme content for corps members,” the statement read.

The minister’s proposal is driven by the need to address youth unemployment and promote self-reliance among Nigerian graduates. By extending the NYSC program, the government seeks to give young people more opportunities to develop their skills. They can become job creators, ultimately driving the country’s economic growth and development.

The proposed extension of the NYSC program is expected to have numerous benefits, including:

– Improved Skills Development: The extended program will provide corps members with more time to develop their skills and gain practical experience in their chosen fields.
– Increased Entrepreneurship Opportunities: The program will equip corps members with the knowledge and skills necessary to start their own businesses, creating more entrepreneurship opportunities and contributing to the country’s economic growth.
– Enhanced National Service: The extended program will enable corps members to make a more meaningful contribution to national development, fostering a sense of patriotism and civic responsibility.


The NYSC Director-General, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, has welcomed the proposal, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to adapting to national priorities. The proposal is expected to undergo further consultation with relevant authorities and the public before its implementation.