NYSC Targets Stronger Skills Training Ahead of 2026 Orientation Exercise

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) says it is intensifying efforts to strengthen skills acquisition and values-based training as part of preparations for the 2026 Batch ‘B’ Stream I Orientation Course.

The Scheme said the move is aimed at improving the quality of training delivered to prospective corps members and ensuring that the orientation programme contributes more directly to national development priorities.

Director-General of NYSC, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, disclosed this on Wednesday in Abuja during the 2026 Batch ‘B’ Pre-Orientation Course Workshop.

He said the orientation course must go beyond routine induction to become a platform for shaping discipline, citizenship values, and practical skills among young Nigerians deployed for national service.

Nafiu noted that the rising number of prospective corps members places additional responsibility on the Scheme and state governments to expand and improve camp infrastructure and logistics.

“This context underscores the importance of both comprehensive review and inclusive participation in these workshops,” he said.

He added that while the increasing corps population presents logistical challenges, it also offers an opportunity to deepen the Scheme’s developmental impact if properly managed.

“Effectively managing this growing number of Corps Members presents not only logistical challenges but also an opportunity to expand our developmental impact as a Scheme. By aligning orientation content with national priorities, we can ensure that a larger intake yields better results,” he stated.

The Director-General also cautioned camp officials on discipline and conduct, stressing that they are expected to serve as role models for corps members throughout the orientation period.

“Demonstrate good conduct so that Corps Members can look up to you. Guide and inspire them, and make it clear that unethical behaviour by camp officials and Corps Members will not be tolerated,” he warned.

Nafiu further urged the integration of digital tools into orientation training to promote responsible media use, civic engagement, and effective community mobilisation among corps members.

“Our orientation programmes should leverage digital media tools constructively and train Corps Members in responsible digital conduct and effective community mobilization,” he said.

On security, he emphasized stronger collaboration with security agencies to ensure safe and well-coordinated orientation camps nationwide.

“We must promote security awareness and maintain close cooperation with our security partners to keep our camps safe,” he added.

Earlier, the Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, Mr. Nura Umar, said the workshop was convened to review previous orientation exercises and identify gaps ahead of the 2026 programme.

He explained that the theme of the workshop, *“Strengthening the Orientation Course to Advance National Priorities and Contemporary Challenges,”* reflects the Scheme’s focus on building disciplined, skilled, and patriotic corps members.

Umar added that the orientation course remains a critical foundation for instilling national values and preparing young graduates for service across diverse communities in the country.

NYSC orientation, corps training, youth development, skills acquisition, national service,