By Aindigh Jerome 

The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has clarified that the Federal Government has not approved Adire as the new uniform for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members. He said his earlier comments during a television interview were misunderstood and that no final decision has been made on any replacement for the current khaki uniform.

The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has dismissed reports suggesting that the Federal Government has approved Adire as the new uniform for members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

The clarification followed widespread media reports after the minister's appearance on Channels Television, where comments about locally produced fabrics were interpreted as confirmation that the iconic khaki uniform would be replaced.

In a statement shared on his official social media account, Olawande explained that he mentioned both Adire and Ankara only as examples of proposals currently being considered during consultations on reforms of the NYSC scheme.

According to him, no specific fabric or design has been adopted.

The minister said the government is assessing various options using criteria that include professional appearance, durability, functionality, cost-effectiveness, promotion of national identity, and support for Nigeria's local textile industry.

He added that discussions about uniforms should not distract Nigerians from the broader reform agenda for the NYSC.

According to Olawande, the reforms are intended to improve graduate employability, promote entrepreneurship, strengthen national integration, enhance service delivery, and ease young people's transition from education into productive careers.

The clarification comes amid widespread public debate over the future of the NYSC uniform and the government's efforts to encourage local manufacturing.