By The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has clarified that the Federal Government has not approved any new fabric to replace the current National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) uniform, following widespread reactions to comments he made during a television interview.
In a statement posted on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Friday, the minister said his earlier reference to Adire and Ankara on Channels Television was only meant to illustrate some of the proposals being considered as part of the ongoing reform of the NYSC scheme.
He explained that no decision has been reached on the design or fabric of any new uniform, stressing that discussions remain at the consultation stage.
According to him, both Adire and Ankara were mentioned only as examples of suggestions that had emerged during stakeholder engagements and should not be interpreted as an official government decision.
“It was not an announcement that any particular fabric has been adopted or approved to replace the current NYSC uniform.” he said.
Olawande stated that the government is assessing several options that meet key requirements, including professionalism, durability, functionality, affordability, national identity and the promotion of national pride.
“No final decision has been taken on the fabric or design.” he noted.
The minister said any eventual choice would be based on broad consultations with stakeholders and guided by what best serves both the NYSC and the country.
He urged Nigerians to focus on the broader objectives of the ongoing reform process rather than placing undue attention on the proposed uniform.
According to him, the reforms are intended to make the NYSC more responsive to present-day realities by improving the employability of corps members, encouraging entrepreneurship, strengthening national integration, enhancing service delivery and easing the transition of graduates into 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 added.
Olawande also appreciated Nigerians for their feedback on the reform process, assuring the public that every proposal would be carefully examined before any final decision is made.
The clarification follows media reports suggesting that Adire had been adopted as the official replacement for the NYSC khaki uniform after the minister’s appearance on Channels Television earlier on Friday.
