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).
The clarification followed widespread reports suggesting that the traditional khaki uniform had been replaced with Adire as part of the ongoing reforms of the scheme.
In a statement on Thursday, the minister explained that his earlier comments had been misinterpreted, stressing that he only mentioned Adire and Ankara as examples of proposals being considered during consultations on the NYSC reforms.
He said no final decision has been taken on the fabric or design that will eventually replace the current uniform.
According to Olawande, the government is evaluating different options based on factors such as professionalism, durability, functionality, cost-effectiveness, national identity and the promotion of local industries.
He added that any decision on a new uniform would only be made after extensive consultations with relevant stakeholders and in the best interest of the scheme and the country.
The minister urged Nigerians not to allow the debate over the proposed uniform to overshadow the broader objectives of the ongoing NYSC reforms.
He explained that the reforms are aimed at making the scheme more relevant by improving employability, promoting entrepreneurship, strengthening national integration, enhancing service delivery and ensuring a smoother transition from education to productive careers.
Olawande reaffirmed the government’s commitment to an inclusive reform process, assuring Nigerians that every proposal would be carefully reviewed before a final decision is reached.
