Minister Reverses Stance, Clarifies Adire Not Sanctioned for NYSC Attire

Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, issued a clarification on Thursday, stating that the Federal Government had not yet given its approval for Adire to become the new uniform for National Youth Service Corps members, following a wave of reactions to his earlier comments on the proposed change.

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In a statement released on his official X handle, Olawande asserted that reports claiming Adire would replace the iconic khaki uniform were misrepresentations of his remarks during an appearance on Channels Television's The Morning Brief.

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Olawande explained that his mention of Adire and Ankara during the interview was merely to provide examples of proposals being considered as part of the ongoing reform of the scheme, emphasizing that no final decision had been made regarding the fabric or design.

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He stated that his intention was solely to cite examples of proposals that had been put forward during consultations, and not to announce the adoption or approval of a particular fabric to replace the current NYSC uniform.

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According to Olawande, the government is evaluating options that meet certain criteria, including professional outlook, unique national identity, durability, functionality, cost-effectiveness, and the projection of national pride.

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

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Olawande urged Nigerians not to let the debate over the proposed uniform overshadow the broader objectives of the ongoing reforms, which aim to make the scheme more relevant to current realities.

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The reforms, he said, are designed to improve employability, promote entrepreneurship, strengthen national integration, enhance service delivery, and create a smoother transition from education to productive careers.

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Olawande cautioned that while conversations about 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.

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Earlier, it was reported that the Federal Government planned to replace the NYSC's traditional khaki uniform with locally produced Adire as part of sweeping reforms approved for the 53-year-old scheme.

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Olawande had stated on Channels Television that the move was intended to promote local textile production and keep government spending within the Nigerian economy, saying "It's Adire".

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The proposed uniform change is part of a comprehensive overhaul of the NYSC approved by the Federal Executive Council on Monday, which also includes skills-based deployment of corps members, civilian operational leadership for the scheme, and amendments to the NYSC Act.