Adire Hasn’t Been Approved for NYSC -FG

Minister Olawande Says Fabric Was Only an Example Amid Ongoing Reforms, Urges Focus on Wider NYSC Overhaul

By Toffa Momoh

ABUJA — The Federal Government has denied approving Adire as the new uniform for National Youth Service Corps members, with the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, saying the fabric was mentioned only as an example during discussions on NYSC reforms.

The clarification followed intense backlash on social media after Olawande’s appearance on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, where he listed Adire and Ankara as possible alternatives to the scheme’s traditional khaki uniform.

In a statement on his verified X handle, @ayowisdom_, the minister said reports that Adire had been adopted misrepresented his position.

“No final decision has been taken on the fabric or design,” Olawande stated. “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.”

Government Sets Criteria for Any Future Uniform Change
The minister said the government is reviewing several options and will only consider a change if it meets strict benchmarks.

“We are considering 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,” he explained.

Olawande added that any eventual decision will be subject to extensive stakeholder engagement and must reflect the collective interest of corps members and the country at large.

Don’t Lose Sight of Bigger Reforms, FG Warns
The minister also called on Nigerians to avoid being distracted by the uniform debate, stressing that it forms only a small part of a larger restructuring of the 53-year-old scheme.

According to him, the reforms are designed to make the NYSC more relevant to current realities by improving corps members’ employability, promoting entrepreneurship, deepening national integration, enhancing service delivery, and easing the transition from school 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,” he said.

What the FEC Approved
The proposed uniform review is part of a comprehensive overhaul approved by the Federal Executive Council on Monday. After more than five decades of operation, the FEC-backed changes also include the skills-based deployment of corps members, the introduction of civilian operational leadership for the scheme, and amendments to the NYSC Act.

How the Controversy Unfolded
Olawande’s reference to Adire and Ankara during the television interview went viral within hours, sparking divided opinions. Critics described the proposal as a misplaced priority and alleged it could favour one region over others. Supporters, however, argued that adopting locally produced textiles could strengthen Nigeria’s textile industry and create entrepreneurial opportunities for youths.

Amid the controversy, the minister moved quickly to set the record straight, reiterating that consultations are still ongoing and that no fabric has been approved to replace the NYSC khaki.