The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has clarified that the Federal Government has not approved the replacement of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) khaki uniform with Adire fabric, saying reports suggesting otherwise misrepresented his comments.
The clarification follows widespread media reports that the government had adopted locally produced Adire as the new official uniform for corps members as part of ongoing reforms of the NYSC scheme.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Olawande explained that his reference to Adire during an appearance on Channels Television was merely illustrative of some of the proposals being considered and did not amount to an official policy announcement.
“My attention has been drawn to some media reports following my brief appearance earlier this morning on Channels TV regarding the ongoing reforms of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), particularly on the issue of the proposed uniform.
“For the avoidance of doubt, yes, I mentioned Adire during the discussion. I also mentioned Ankara. My intention was simply to cite examples of some of the proposals that have been put forward in the course of our consultations. It was not an announcement that any particular fabric has been adopted or approved to replace the current NYSC uniform,” the minister said.
Olawande stressed that no final decision has been taken on the design or fabric of a new NYSC uniform.
According to him, the government is evaluating several options based on key considerations, including professionalism, national identity, durability, functionality, affordability and the promotion of national pride.
“What we are considering are different options that tick all the right boxes in terms of professional outlook, a unique national identity, durability, functionality, cost-effectiveness and the projection of national pride. No final decision has been taken on the fabric or design,” he added.
The minister assured Nigerians that any eventual decision would emerge from extensive consultations with stakeholders and would be guided by what best serves the interests of the NYSC and the country.
He also urged the public not to lose sight of the broader objectives of the ongoing reforms, noting that the changes extend beyond the issue of uniforms.
According to Olawande, the reform agenda is aimed at making the NYSC more relevant to current realities by improving graduates’ employability, promoting entrepreneurship, strengthening national integration, enhancing service delivery and easing the transition from education into productive careers.
He said although public interest in the proposed uniform is understandable, the conversation should not overshadow the wider reforms designed to empower millions of Nigerian youths and reposition the NYSC as a stronger platform for national development.
The minister expressed appreciation for the feedback received from Nigerians and pledged that every proposal under consideration would be carefully evaluated in the overall interest of the nation.