The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has clarified that the Federal Government has not approved a new uniform for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, following reports that Adire fabric would replace the scheme's traditional khaki.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Olawande said his remarks during an appearance on *Channels Television* earlier in the day were misinterpreted.
The minister explained that he mentioned Adire and Ankara only as examples of proposals that emerged during ongoing consultations on reforms to the NYSC.
"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.
According to Olawande, no final decision has been reached on the fabric or design of a new uniform.
He said the government is considering several options based on factors such as professional appearance, national identity, durability, functionality, cost-effectiveness and the promotion of national pride.
"As with every aspect of the ongoing NYSC reforms, any eventual decision will be guided by extensive stakeholder engagement and what best serves the interests of the Scheme and the nation," he added.
The minister urged Nigerians to focus on the broader objectives of the ongoing reforms rather than speculation about the uniform.
He said the reform agenda is aimed at improving graduate employability, promoting entrepreneurship, strengthening national integration, enhancing service delivery and easing the 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," Olawande said.
The clarification comes hours after several media reports interpreted the minister's television interview as confirmation that the Federal Government had approved Adire as the new NYSC uniform.
