The Federal Government has clarified that no decision has been taken to replace the National Youth Service Corps khaki uniform with Adire, following reports that suggested the traditional fabric had been adopted as the new official attire for corps members.
Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, explained that his earlier comments during a television interview were misunderstood, stressing that Adire was only mentioned as one of several proposals being considered as part of the ongoing reforms of the NYSC scheme.
In a statement released after the interview, the minister said reports claiming the government had approved Adire as the new NYSC uniform were inaccurate.
“My attention has been drawn to some media reports following my appearance on Channels Television regarding the ongoing reforms of the NYSC, particularly on the issue of the proposed uniform.”
“For the avoidance of doubt, I mentioned Adire and Ankara only as examples of proposals that have emerged during consultations. It was not an announcement that any fabric has been adopted or approved to replace the current NYSC uniform.”
Olawande stated that the government is still assessing various options, with emphasis on professionalism, durability, functionality, affordability, national identity and support for local industries.
“What we are considering are different options that meet the required standards in terms of professional outlook, durability, functionality, cost-effectiveness, national identity and national pride. No final decision has been taken on the fabric or design.”
During the television interview, the minister had responded to questions on whether any new uniform would be produced locally, citing Adire as an example of a Nigerian-made fabric.
“Adire is produced in Nigeria. We have producers in Ogun and Kwara states, alongside textile industries. The idea is to keep our resources within the country.”
He, however, urged Nigerians not to allow discussions about a possible uniform change to overshadow the broader objectives of the ongoing reforms.
According to the minister, the review of the NYSC scheme is aimed at improving youth employability, promoting entrepreneurship, strengthening national unity, enhancing service delivery and easing the transition of graduates from school into productive careers.
“While conversations around the uniform are understandable, they should not distract from the wider reforms designed to empower millions of Nigerian youths and reposition the NYSC as a stronger platform for national development,” Olawande said.
