The Federal Government has clarified that it has not approved Adire as the new uniform for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, contrary to reports that emerged after comments made by the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande.
Olawande explained that his remarks during a television interview were misunderstood, stressing that he never announced the adoption of Adire as the replacement for the current khaki uniform.
According to the minister, Adire and Ankara were only mentioned as examples of suggestions being considered during consultations on the ongoing reform of the NYSC scheme.
“My attention has been drawn to some media reports following my brief appearance earlier this morning on Channels TV regarding the ongoing reforms of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), particularly on the issue of the proposed uniform.
“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.
He added that the government is still reviewing different options and has not reached a final decision on the material or design of the uniform.
“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,” the minister stated.
