The National Youth Service Corps is set for a significant transformation as the Federal Government rolls out reforms aimed at improving the programme for future corps members.

The proposed overhaul is designed to strengthen the scheme’s relevance, enhance participants’ welfare, and better prepare young graduates for life after national service.

Among the key reforms expected are:

1. Improved Security Measures: Enhanced protection for corps members, particularly in areas facing security challenges.
2. Better Welfare Packages: Plans to improve accommodation, healthcare access, and general welfare during the service year.
3. Expanded Skills Acquisition: Greater emphasis on vocational training and entrepreneurship to boost self-employment opportunities.
4. Digital Service Delivery: Increased use of technology for registration, deployment, documentation, and other administrative processes.
5. Review of Orientation Camp Activities: Updates to orientation programmes to better reflect current national priorities and workforce demands.
6. Stronger Community Development Projects: Corps members will be encouraged to undertake more impactful projects tailored to the needs of their host communities.
7. Closer Collaboration With Employers: Efforts to connect corps members with employment and internship opportunities after service.
8. Enhanced Monitoring and Supervision: Improved oversight to ensure compliance with NYSC guidelines and improve participants’ experiences.
9. Modernisation of the Scheme: Broader reforms aimed at making the NYSC more responsive to Nigeria’s changing social and economic realities.

Government officials say the reforms are intended to preserve the objectives of national service while equipping graduates with practical skills, improving safety, and enhancing career prospects.

The changes are expected to be implemented in phases, with stakeholders expressing optimism that the reforms will make the NYSC programme more effective and beneficial for future participants.

Filmmaker and gospel minister Joshua Mike-Bamiloye has stated that productions by Mount Zion Faith Ministries are intended to celebrate, rather than demonise, Yoruba culture.

Mike-Bamiloye made the clarification amid discussions about the portrayal of traditional beliefs and cultural practices in faith-based films produced by the ministry.

According to him, Mount Zion’s movies are designed to highlight positive aspects of Yoruba heritage while conveying Christian messages and moral lessons. He stressed that the aim is not to attack any culture but to tell stories that inspire viewers and encourage positive values.

The filmmaker noted that Yoruba culture is rich in history, language, and traditions, and that many of these elements have been incorporated into Mount Zion productions over the years.

He explained that the ministry’s focus has always been on addressing spiritual and social issues through storytelling while maintaining respect for cultural identities.

Mike-Bamiloye also emphasized the importance of preserving indigenous cultures and languages, urging filmmakers to continue creating content that reflects Africa’s diverse heritage.

His comments have sparked conversations among movie enthusiasts and cultural advocates, with many praising the role of faith-based productions in promoting local narratives and traditions.

Mount Zion remains one of Nigeria’s most influential Christian film ministries, known for producing movies and dramas that combine entertainment with religious and moral teachings.

The has reported a decline in the average price of household kerosene, even as the costs of petrol and diesel recorded increases across the country.

According to the latest data released by the agency, kerosene prices eased compared to previous months, offering some relief to households that rely on the product for cooking and other domestic activities.

In contrast, the average prices of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, and Automotive Gas Oil (diesel) continued their upward trajectory, reflecting ongoing market dynamics within the downstream petroleum sector.

The increase in petrol and diesel costs is expected to have broader economic implications, particularly for transportation, manufacturing, and small businesses that depend heavily on fuel-powered operations.

Analysts say rising diesel prices could further increase operating expenses for businesses, while higher petrol costs may place additional pressure on household budgets and transportation fares.

Despite the decline in kerosene prices, experts note that the overall energy cost burden on many Nigerians remains significant due to the persistent increases in other petroleum products.

The latest figures underscore the mixed trends currently being experienced in Nigeria’s energy market, with consumers closely monitoring price movements and their impact on the cost of living.