FG lifts NYSC posting restrictions, opens private sector opportunities

The Federal Government has lifted longstanding restrictions on the posting of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, a move that will now enable corps members to be deployed to private sector organizations, including major banks and companies in the oil and gas sector.

This landmark change will take effect with the 2024 Batch ‘C Orientation Course, as outlined in a memo dated November 18, 2024, from the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande.

This policy shift aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s strategic vision to tackle rising youth unemployment and harness the potential of young Nigerians. Comrade Olawande explained that the change aims to provide corps members with practical experience that matches their academic qualifications, increasing their job readiness and enhancing employment prospects.

Previously, corps members were restricted to assignments in four public sectors—education, agriculture, health, and infrastructure. This policy, initiated under former Minister Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, was designed to prevent the exploitation of corps members as cheap labor by private companies while bolstering public sector services. However, critics argued that this limitation left many graduates underprepared for industry-specific roles.

In the updated framework, corps members will have access to opportunities that allow them to develop relevant skills in areas such as finance, energy, and technology. High-demand locations like Lagos and Abuja will be prioritized for these postings, fostering greater public-private sector collaboration and addressing the skills gap contributing to youth unemployment.

The memo reads in part: “There is an urgent need to review this policy to expand the opportunity and access for corps members to serve in places that are relevant to their areas of study.

“Without prejudice to the need to constantly review per prevailing realities, I now direct as follows: Lifting of all restrictions on postings.

“Posting of corps members to, as much as practicable, be in line with their course of study.

“Posting of corps members to select banks and other private sector organisations, including those operating in oil and gas, to commence with Abuja and Lagos.

“The directive contained herein will take effect from the date of commencement of the 2024 Batch ‘C Orientation Course and applies in relation to any matter relating to the posting and distribution of corps members to Places of Primary Assignment.

“The now revoked policy has greatly hampered experience gathering that would effectively prepare them for the job market.”