NYSC: Adire not approved yet to replace ‘Khaki’ – Youth minister

The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has clarified that the Federal Government has not approved Adire as the replacement for the National Youth Service Corps’ (NYSC) traditional khaki uniform, saying reports suggesting otherwise misrepresented his comments.

The clarification came hours after media reports interpreted remarks he made during an interview on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief as confirmation that Adire had been adopted as the new NYSC uniform.

In a statement posted on his official social media accounts on Thursday, Olawande said, “My attention has been drawn to some media reports following my brief appearance earlier this morning on Channels TV regarding the ongoing reforms of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), particularly on the issue of the proposed uniform.”

He added: “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.”

Explaining the ongoing review, the minister stated, “For the record, what we are considering are different options that tick all the right boxes in terms of professional outlook, a unique national identity, durability, functionality, cost-effectiveness, and the projection of national pride.”

He stressed that “No final decision has been taken on the fabric or design.”

Olawande urged Nigerians not to allow discussions over the proposed uniform to distract from the broader objectives of the NYSC reforms, which are designed to improve employability, promote entrepreneurship, strengthen national integration, enhance service delivery and create a smoother transition from education to 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 said.

The clarification means the NYSC will retain its current khaki uniform pending the conclusion of consultations and the Federal Government’s approval of any final design or fabric under the ongoing reform of the scheme.