21. July 2025
Admin
Should NYSC Be Scrapped?
Arguments in Favor
Advocates for scrapping the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) argue that the program has outlived its original purpose. Established in 1973 to promote national unity after the Nigerian civil war, critics claim the current realities no longer justify the risks, costs, and inefficiencies associated with it. Many corps members are posted to unsafe regions, often facing threats of violence, kidnapping, or poor living conditions.
Additionally, some view the program as a waste of time and resources, especially in cases where graduates are underutilized or sent to irrelevant placements. In a struggling economy with rising unemployment, many believe it would be more beneficial for fresh graduates to transition directly into jobs, vocational training, or entrepreneurship instead of a year-long mandatory service.
Arguments Against
Opponents of scrapping NYSC emphasize the program's role in fostering national integration, cultural exchange, and youth development. By sending graduates to states different from their own, NYSC helps break ethnic, religious, and regional boundaries, fostering understanding and tolerance among Nigeria’s diverse population.
Furthermore, the program provides many graduates with their first work experience, particularly in the education, health, and government sectors. For some, it also becomes an avenue for permanent employment or community impact. Instead of scrapping the scheme, reforming and strengthening its security measures, relevance, and efficiency could preserve its core goals while adapting it to modern realities.
Conclusion
The debate around NYSC reflects broader concerns about safety, youth empowerment, and national cohesion. While there are valid criticisms regarding the structure and execution of the program, scrapping it entirely might be a hasty decision. A well-reformed NYSC that addresses current challenges could still serve as a valuable platform for uniting the country and preparing graduates for the world ahead.
