Minister of Youth Development Ayodele Olawande has issued a detailed clarification on reports suggesting the replacement of the traditional NYSC khaki uniform with Adire fabric.
The statement came hours after his appearance on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Thursday.
In the interview, Olawande mentioned Adire and Ankara as examples of locally produced options to boost Nigeria’s economy and textile industry.
Media outlets quickly reported it as confirmation of an approved change.
Olawande’s full X statement addressed the misinterpretation directly.
“For the avoidance of doubt, yes, I mentioned Adire during the discussion. I also mentioned Ankara,” he wrote.
“My intention was simply to cite examples of some of the proposals that have been put forward in the course of our consultations.”
He stressed it “was not an announcement that any particular fabric has been adopted or approved to replace the current NYSC uniform.”
The minister outlined ongoing considerations for the new uniform.
Options must meet standards of professional outlook, unique national identity, durability, functionality, cost-effectiveness, and national pride.
“No final decision has been taken on the fabric or design,” he added.
He urged focus on broader NYSC reforms approved by the Federal Executive Council on June 29.
These include skills training, technology-driven call-up, risk-sensitive deployment, and civilian leadership.
“Any eventual decision will be guided by extensive stakeholder engagement,” Olawande stated.
Public reaction on X has been swift and largely critical.
Many users viewed the initial remarks as an attempt to impose Yoruba cultural fabric nationally, sparking accusations of ethnic bias in a country with over 250 ethnic groups.
Critics questioned the minister’s priorities, arguing youth unemployment and security deserve more attention than uniform changes.
Some called for preserving the khaki as a symbol of national unity and discipline since 1973.
Others labeled the move tone-deaf, comparing it to past controversies over ethnic attire in national contexts.
Olawande acknowledged constructive feedback and assured Nigerians that proposals would serve the scheme and nation’s best interests.
The clarification aims to refocus attention on employability, entrepreneurship, and national integration goals of the reforms.
As debates continue online, the final uniform decision remains pending further consultations.

Comments
No comments yet. Be the first to comment!