The Minister of Youth Development, Olawande Emmanuel Ayodele, has clarified that the Federal Government has yet to approve any new fabric or design for the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, uniform, saying references to Adire and Ankara during a television interview were merely examples of proposals under consideration.
The minister made the clarification in a statement posted on his official Facebook account on Thursday, following media reports that suggested the government had adopted Adire as the new NYSC uniform.
According to him, his comments during an appearance on Channels Television were taken out of context.
“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.
Olawande explained that the ongoing review of the NYSC uniform is part of broader reforms of the scheme, stressing that no final decision has been taken.
“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. No final decision has been taken on the fabric or design,” he stated.
He added that any eventual decision would emerge from extensive consultations with relevant stakeholders and would prioritise the best interests of the scheme and the country.
“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,” the minister said.
Olawande urged Nigerians to focus on the wider objectives of the ongoing reforms rather than the debate over the proposed uniform.
He said the reforms are intended to make the NYSC more responsive to present day realities by improving the employability of corps members, promoting entrepreneurship, strengthening national integration, enhancing service delivery, and ensuring a smoother transition from education into 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 minister also appreciated the feedback received from Nigerians, assuring them that every proposal would be carefully evaluated before any decision is reached.
“I appreciate the constructive feedback and assure Nigerians that every proposal will continue to be carefully considered in the best interest of the nation,” he added.
