The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande has clarified that the Federal Government has not approved any new fabric or design to replace the current NYSC uniform, putting to rest reports suggesting that Adire has been adopted.

 

The clarification comes after widespread reactions to comments he made during an appearance on Channels Television, where he mentioned Adire and Ankara while discussing the ongoing reforms of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

 

According to the minister, both fabrics were cited only as examples of proposals that have emerged during consultations and were never presented as approved replacements for the existing NYSC uniform.

 

He explained that the government is still considering different options, with any eventual decision expected to meet key standards, including professionalism, a unique national identity, durability, functionality, cost-effectiveness, and the promotion of national pride. He emphasized that no final decision has been made on either the fabric or the design.

 

The minister also urged Nigerians not to allow the debate over the NYSC uniform to overshadow the broader objectives of the ongoing reforms. He said the reform agenda is focused on making the Scheme more relevant to today’s realities by improving graduate employability, promoting entrepreneurship, strengthening national integration, enhancing service delivery, and ensuring a smoother transition from education into productive careers.

 

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to an inclusive process, he said every proposal will continue to undergo extensive stakeholder engagement before any final decision is taken, assuring Nigerians that the reforms will ultimately be guided by what best serves the interests of the NYSC and the nation.