Enough Is Enough! Minister Orders NYSC To Scrap Stressful Morning Drills For Corps Members”

Minister Calls for Overhaul of NYSC Camp Schedule, Urges Focus on Innovation and Youth Well-Being....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The Minister of Youth, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, has called on the management of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to restructure its orientation camp activities, emphasizing the need for corps members to get sufficient rest during the 21-day program.

Speaking at the 2025 Annual Management Conference themed “Transforming the NYSC Scheme to Address the Needs of Modern Nigerian Graduates and Society”, held in Abuja on Monday, Olawande suggested that morning drills should begin at 7:00 am instead of 4:00 am, to allow participants better rest and mental readiness.

He stressed that the NYSC’s primary goal is unity in diversity, not fatigue through rigorous early-morning activities.

“NYSC members should begin drilling at 7:00 am, not 4:00 am. What real purpose does drilling serve? We’re not saying scrap it entirely, but the aim is unity—not just physical training,” he said.

The minister emphasized that a refreshed and active mind is crucial for creativity, innovation, and adaptability in today’s job market.

“How can corps members think creatively or carry out research if they are worn out from drills at dawn? The real challenge is making our youths job-ready. Drilling hasn’t made us more competitive in the labor market.”

He questioned the status quo, noting that year after year, over 480,000 graduates pass through NYSC with little visible progress in employability or economic empowerment.

“You can’t keep doing the same thing and expect different results. It’s time to think outside the box—or even beyond the box entirely.”

Olawande concluded by commending NYSC leadership for being receptive to reform, expressing confidence in their renewed drive to modernize the scheme.