By Lyop Pam
The Federal Ministry of Youth Development says it remains committed to strengthening the National Youth Service Corps to enhance creativity and innovation among Nigerian youths for national growth and development.
The Minister of Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawale, stated this at the 2026 NYSC Annual Management Conference held in Jos, the Plateau State capital.
Mr Olawale, said in line with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the ministry will continue to pursue reforms within the NYSC to meet the challenges of a growing youth population.
He said the scheme has made significant contributions in education, healthcare, and community development across the country.
Mr. Olawale also commended the NYSC, Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development, SAED programme, noting that empowering youths with skills is vital for sustainable development.

Declaring the conference open, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang commended the management of the scheme for sustaining the vision of its founding father, General Yakubu Gowon, describing the NYSC as one of Africa’s leading youth organisations.
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Ngo Josephine Piyo, the Governor announced that the state government has approved the immediate renovation of the permanent orientation camp, completion of staff quarters, expansion of the multipurpose hall and water treatment plant, as well as conversion of power supply from the national grid to solar energy.

Earlier, in his opening remarks, the Director-General of the NYSC, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, said the conference provides an opportunity for managers to review internal processes and develop strategies to address emerging challenges.
He also appreciated the Plateau State Government for ongoing renovations at the permanent orientation camp and the provision of additional land for agricultural expansion to boost food sufficiency for the scheme.
Also speaking, the Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, Mr. Nura Umar, said the theme of the conference would enable participants to identify professional gaps and improve the operational efficiency of the scheme.
He expressed optimism that deliberations at the conference would further strengthen the NYSC.
Edited by Karen keyen
