TPF Hails Youth Minister Ayodele Olawande Over Landmark NYSC Reforms
The Progressives Forum (TPF) has commended the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, for the sweeping reforms recently approved for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), describing them as one of the most significant transformations of the Scheme since its establishment 53 years ago.
In a statement signed by its National Chairman, Abuh Andrew Abuh, the Forum said the reforms represent a bold demonstration of visionary leadership and reaffirm the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to building a generation of empowered, skilled and productive young Nigerians.
The Forum noted with pride that Olawande, a longstanding member of the Progressives Forum who served diligently as the Forum’s Ondo State Coordinator from 2014 to 2023, has continued to distinguish himself in public service through innovative policies and impactful programmes that have positively affected millions of Nigerian youths across the country.
According to the statement, “The Progressives Forum is immensely proud of one of its own. Hon. Ayodele Olawande has remained true to the ideals of progressive leadership by demonstrating that public office is a platform for service, innovation and meaningful impact. His remarkable performance as Minister of Youth Development has justified the confidence reposed in him by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
The Forum described the newly approved NYSC reforms as revolutionary, noting that they will reposition the Scheme from a traditional national service programme into a modern institution that prepares Nigerian youths for leadership, innovation, entrepreneurship and global competitiveness.
“The comprehensive review of the NYSC, the first in the Scheme’s history, is a landmark achievement. The introduction of a technology-driven call-up process, risk-sensitive deployment for improved safety, a redesigned orientation programme with stronger emphasis on digital skills, entrepreneurship and leadership, skills-based primary assignments, improved camp standards and modern governance structures reflects thoughtful, forward-looking leadership.”
“These reforms represent a deliberate investment in Nigeria’s youth and a strategic effort to align the NYSC with the realities of the 21st-century economy. They also demonstrate the Minister’s deep understanding of the aspirations and challenges of young Nigerians.”
The Forum further noted that under Olawande’s leadership, the Ministry of Youth Development has continued to champion policies and programmes designed to expand opportunities for youth empowerment, skills acquisition, innovation, enterprise development and economic inclusion, in line with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to TPF, the NYSC reforms are particularly significant because they place greater emphasis on employability, productivity and career development while preserving the Scheme’s historic role in promoting national unity and integration.
“The vision behind these reforms is clear. The NYSC is no longer being viewed merely as a mandatory one-year service programme but as a strategic platform for preparing young Nigerians to become innovators, entrepreneurs, professionals and nation builders capable of driving the country’s economic transformation.”
The Forum also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing the leadership and political will that made the historic reforms possible, saying the administration has consistently demonstrated its resolve to place young people at the centre of Nigeria’s development agenda.
“The President deserves commendation for entrusting the nation’s youth portfolio to a capable, energetic and visionary young leader whose performance continues to inspire confidence. The approval of these reforms by the Federal Executive Council underscores the administration’s commitment to building a future where Nigerian youths are equipped with the knowledge, skills and opportunities needed to compete globally.”
The Progressives Forum urged stakeholders across government, educational institutions, the private sector and civil society to support the implementation of the reforms, expressing confidence that they would significantly strengthen the NYSC and enhance its contribution to national development.
The Forum reaffirmed its confidence in Minister Ayodele Olawande’s leadership and expressed optimism that he would continue to champion transformative policies that improve the lives of Nigerian youths and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s long-term growth and prosperity.
Signed:
Abuh Andrew Abuh
National Chairman
The Progressives Forum (TPF)
