NYSC Adire: Youth Minister Makes U-turn, Says No Decision Yet on Replacing Khaki

By Emmanuel Kwada

The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has clarified his earlier remarks on the proposed redesign of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) uniform, stating that the Federal Government has not taken any decision to replace the iconic khaki outfit with Adire fabric.

The clarification comes amid widespread reactions following reports suggesting that the NYSC uniform would be changed from khaki to Adire as part of ongoing reforms within the scheme.

Addressing the controversy, Olawande explained that his comments had been misunderstood, stressing that Adire was only mentioned as one of several design concepts currently under consideration.

“I didn’t say we will replace Khaki with Adire,” the minister stated. “I was just giving examples. I meant Adire and Ankara are among the design proposals on our table. But we are yet to make a final decision.”

His remarks have effectively reversed the impression created by earlier reports, which sparked debates across social media and among former and serving corps members about the future identity of the NYSC uniform.

The minister noted that discussions on possible changes to the uniform remain at the proposal stage and form part of broader efforts to modernize the scheme and align it with ongoing reforms aimed at making the NYSC more relevant to contemporary national development needs.

The traditional khaki uniform has been a defining symbol of the NYSC since the programme was established in 1973, making any suggestion of a change a matter of significant public interest. Many Nigerians view the khaki attire as an enduring symbol of national unity, youth service and patriotism.

While Adire and Ankara fabrics have been highlighted as potential options being examined by policymakers, Olawande emphasized that no final decision has been reached and that consultations are still ongoing.

The clarification is expected to calm concerns among stakeholders who feared that a major alteration to the NYSC’s identity had already been approved.

The Federal Government has in recent weeks unveiled a series of proposed reforms for the NYSC, including measures aimed at strengthening skills acquisition, entrepreneurship development and the overall impact of the scheme on national growth. However, officials insist that any changes to the corps members’ uniform will only be announced after due consideration and approval.

For now, the minister’s latest statement confirms that the familiar khaki uniform remains unchanged, while discussions on possible alternatives continue behind the scenes.