The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has clarified reports suggesting that the Federal Government has approved a new uniform for members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), describing such claims as inaccurate.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Olawande said his comments during a brief appearance on Channels Television had been misconstrued, stressing that no decision had been made on replacing the current NYSC uniform.
According to the minister, he only mentioned Adire and Ankara as examples of some of the proposals that emerged during consultations on the ongoing reforms of the Scheme, and not as fabrics that had been selected or approved.
“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.
Olawande explained that the government is currently considering several options that meet key requirements, including professional appearance, a unique national identity, durability, functionality, cost-effectiveness, and the promotion of national pride.
He emphasized that no final decision has been reached on the fabric or design, adding that any eventual choice would be based on extensive stakeholder consultations and what best serves the interests of the NYSC and the nation.
The minister urged Nigerians to focus on the broader objectives of the ongoing NYSC reforms rather than the debate surrounding the proposed uniform.
According to him, 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 ensuring a smoother transition from education to productive careers.
He noted that while discussions about the uniform are understandable, they should not overshadow the comprehensive reforms designed to empower millions of Nigerian youths and reposition the NYSC as a stronger platform for national development.
Olawande also appreciated the feedback received from Nigerians, assuring the public that every proposal under consideration would be carefully evaluated in the best interest of the country.
