FG Yet to Approve Adire as NYSC Uniform, Minister Clarifies


The Federal Government has clarified that it has not approved Adire as the new uniform for members of the National Youth Service Corps, following widespread reactions to comments made by the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, on the proposed reform of the scheme.

Olawande, in a statement posted on his official X handle on Thursday, said reports claiming that Adire had been adopted to replace the iconic khaki uniform misrepresented his remarks during an interview on Channels Television's The Morning Brief.

The minister explained that Adire and Ankara were mentioned only as examples of proposals being considered as part of the ongoing reform of the NYSC, stressing that no final decision had been taken on the fabric or design of a new uniform.

"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," Olawande said.

He added that the government was evaluating options that would meet key requirements, including professional appearance, national identity, durability, functionality, cost-effectiveness and the promotion of national pride.

According to him, any decision on the uniform 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 discussions about the proposed uniform to distract from the broader objectives of the ongoing reforms.

He said the reforms are aimed at making the NYSC more relevant by improving youth employability, promoting entrepreneurship, strengthening national integration, enhancing service delivery and ensuring 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 said.

Earlier reports had suggested that the Federal Government planned to replace the NYSC's traditional khaki uniform with locally produced Adire as part of reforms approved for the 53-year-old scheme.

During his appearance on Channels Television, Olawande had identified Adire as a proposed option, saying the initiative was intended to support local textile production and retain government spending within the Nigerian economy.

The proposed uniform review is one of several reforms approved by the Federal Executive Council on Monday. Other measures include skills-based deployment of corps members, the introduction of civilian operational leadership for the scheme and proposed amendments to the NYSC Act.

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