A New Nigeria – Rethinking National Youth Orientation

Nigerian youths are increasingly playing a role in determining the nation’s destiny. The youth movement is questioning norms, starting with the EndSARS demonstrations and continuing involvement in the 2023 election. Therefore, it is crucial to think of youth orientation as an essential element for creating a new Nigeria. One of the schemes that the government can leverage to promote national unity is the National Youth Service Corp.

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) was established in 1973, following the end of the civil war, as a program to support the integration and growth of young people from different parts of the country. The government thought that such a program would instill discipline in Nigerian youths, boost morale by giving them a chance to learn about national ideals and other tribes’ cultures, and foster in them the attitude that drives national interest. Unfortunately, the level of division and hostility in our nation has dramatically increased, and one can say that the scheme has not significantly impacted our sense of national identity.

What prevented such a commendable program from promoting national values?

In 1973, there were just 2,364 graduates in Nigeria, which had a national population of roughly 60 million, according to Statista. In 2021, the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics estimated 64.1 million people in the country are between the ages of 15 and 35, more than the entire national population of 1973. Since National Youth Service is only open to tertiary graduates, which is less than 1 % of the youth population, the NYSC scheme cannot significantly influence the youth population towards national unity. Instead, the program can only act as a buffer between tertiary educational institutions and the job market and might even be considered discriminatory.

How can National Youth Service Corp achieve the objective of fostering national unity?

In some countries, every citizen above 18 is legally required to serve in the military or a paramilitary organization. This approach guarantees inclusion in nation-building.

The Federal Government should reevaluate the program and redesign it to include every young Nigerian between the ages of 18 and 30, regardless of their educational background, preferred career path, line of work, or social standing. This consideration is crucial given the growing number of young people outside the tertiary education system who are making their way into politics. This inclusive approach would increase young Nigerians’ productivity, establish discipline, foster national unity, and prepare them for future leadership roles.