The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has clarified that the Federal Government has not approved Adire fabric as the new uniform for members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), contrary to his earlier remarks.
The clarification came hours after his comments on the proposed uniform change sparked widespread reactions across the country.
In a statement posted on his official X handle on Thursday, Olawande said reports claiming Adire had been adopted to replace the iconic khaki uniform misrepresented his comments during an appearance on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief.
He explained that Adire and Ankara were only mentioned as examples of proposals being considered as part of ongoing reforms of the scheme, stressing that “No final decision has been taken on the fabric or design.”
“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,” he said.
According to the minister, the government is considering 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.”
He added that any final decision would be based on extensive consultations with stakeholders and what best serves the interests of the NYSC and the country.
Olawande also urged Nigerians not to allow the debate over the proposed uniform to overshadow the broader objectives of the ongoing reforms.
“The reforms are designed to make the Scheme more relevant to today’s realities by improving employability, promoting entrepreneurship, strengthening national integration, enhancing service delivery, and creating a smoother transition from education to productive careers.
“While conversations around the uniform are understandable, they should not overshadow the far-reaching reforms aimed at empowering millions of Nigerian youths and positioning the NYSC as a stronger platform for national development,” he stated.
