NIGERIA: Youth Minister Clarifies NYSC Uniform Comments, Says No Decision on Adire Yet

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos , Nigeria

The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has clarified that the Federal Government has not approved Adire or any other fabric to replace the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) khaki uniform, following widespread reports triggered by his television interview.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Olawande said his earlier comments on Channels Television were misunderstood, stressing that Adire and Ankara were only mentioned as examples of proposals being considered as part of the ongoing NYSC reform process.

The minister said, “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.”

He explained that no final decision has been taken on the proposed uniform, noting that the government is evaluating options based on professionalism, national identity, durability, functionality, affordability and national pride.

Olawande said, “No final decision has been taken on the fabric or design.”

He added that any eventual decision would be guided by extensive stakeholder consultations and what best serves the interests of the NYSC and the nation.

The clarification comes hours after reports emerged that the Federal Government had concluded plans to replace the traditional khaki uniform with locally produced Adire as part of the comprehensive reforms recently approved for the 53-year-old scheme.

The minister urged Nigerians not to lose sight of the broader objectives of the reform agenda.

He said, “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.”

Olawande added, “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.”