No decision yet on NYSC uniform, minister clarifies
The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has clarified that the Federal Government has not approved any new fabric or design for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) uniform.
The minister made the clarification in a statement on Thursday following media reports generated by his appearance on Channels Television, where he spoke about the ongoing reforms of the NYSC.
According to Olawande, his reference to Adire and Ankara during the interview was only to illustrate some of the proposals that have emerged from consultations and should not be interpreted as an announcement that either fabric had been adopted to replace the current NYSC uniform.
“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,” he said.
The minister explained that government is considering various options that meet key requirements, including a 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 either the fabric or the design, adding that any eventual choice would be guided by extensive stakeholder engagement and what best serves the interests of the NYSC and the country.
Olawande urged Nigerians to focus on the broader objectives of the ongoing NYSC reform rather than allowing discussions about the proposed uniform to dominate the conversation.
He said the reforms are aimed at making the scheme more relevant to present-day realities by improving the employability of corps members, promoting entrepreneurship, strengthening national integration, enhancing service delivery, and creating a smoother transition from education to productive careers.
The minister appreciated the constructive feedback from Nigerians and assured the public that every proposal under consideration would be carefully evaluated in the best interest of the nation.
His clarification follows widespread reactions to reports suggesting that Adire had been approved as the new NYSC uniform, a claim he said does not reflect the current state of deliberations.
