The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has clarified that no decision has been made to replace the current National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) uniform, dismissing reports that Adire fabric had been adopted.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Olawande said his comments during an interview on Channels Television were misinterpreted.

According to the minister, he mentioned both Adire and Ankara only as examples of proposals being considered during ongoing consultations on NYSC reforms and not as approved replacements for the current uniform.

He explained that the government is evaluating different options based on factors such as professionalism, national identity, durability, functionality, affordability and the promotion of national pride.

Olawande stressed that no final decision has been reached on the fabric or design of the NYSC uniform, adding that any eventual decision would be guided by extensive stakeholder consultations and the overall interest of the scheme and the country.

He urged Nigerians to focus on the broader objectives of the ongoing NYSC reforms, which include improving youth employability, promoting entrepreneurship, strengthening national integration, enhancing service delivery and easing the transition from education to productive careers.

The minister added that while discussions about the NYSC uniform are understandable, they should not overshadow the wider reforms aimed at empowering young Nigerians and repositioning the scheme as a stronger platform for national development.

He also appreciated the feedback received from Nigerians, assuring the public that every proposal under consideration would be carefully assessed in the nation’s best interest.