FG Yet to Approve Adire as NYSC Uniform, Minister Clarifies
By Nafiu Muhammad Lema
The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has clarified that the Federal Government has not approved Adire as the new uniform for members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), following widespread reactions to earlier reports.
In a statement shared on his official X account on Thursday, the minister explained that his comments during an interview on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief were misunderstood. He said references to Adire and Ankara were merely examples of proposals currently being considered as part of the ongoing reform of the NYSC, stressing that no final decision has been made on the fabric or design of the corps members’ uniform.
Olawande noted that the government is carefully evaluating options that meet key requirements, including professionalism, durability, functionality, affordability, national identity and the promotion of Nigerian culture.
According to him, any decision on a new uniform will only be reached after broad consultations with relevant stakeholders and in the best interest of the NYSC and the country.
The minister also urged Nigerians to focus on the broader objectives of the ongoing reforms rather than the debate over the uniform. He said the reforms are aimed at improving the relevance of the scheme through enhanced employability, entrepreneurship development, stronger national integration, improved service delivery and a smoother transition from education to productive careers.
Earlier reports had suggested that the Federal Government planned to replace the NYSC’s traditional khaki uniform with locally produced Adire to support local textile production and boost the Nigerian economy. However, the minister has now clarified that the proposal remains under consideration and no official approval has been granted.
