FG denies adopting Ankara to replace NYSC khaki uniform

Education

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Federal Government has dismissed reports claiming it has approved Ankara fabric to replace the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) khaki uniform as part of ongoing reforms of the scheme.

The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, clarified on Thursday that no decision has been taken on the proposed redesign of the NYSC uniform, describing media reports suggesting otherwise as misleading.

According to the minister, the misunderstanding followed comments he made during an interview on Channels Television, where he referenced Adire and Ankara as examples of proposals submitted during consultations on the reform of the NYSC.

“My attention has been drawn to some media reports following my brief appearance earlier this morning on Channels Television regarding the ongoing reforms of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), particularly on the issue of the proposed uniform,” Olawande said.

“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 explained that the government is evaluating several options that meet the objectives of the reform programme.

According to him, the considerations include professional appearance, a distinct national identity, durability, functionality, affordability and the promotion of national pride.

“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,” he said.

The minister stressed that any eventual decision would be guided by extensive stakeholder consultations and what best serves the interests of the NYSC and the country.

He urged Nigerians to focus on the broader objectives of the ongoing reforms rather than the debate over the uniform.

According to Olawande, the reforms are designed to reposition the NYSC as a more relevant institution capable of improving graduate employability, promoting entrepreneurship, strengthening national integration, and easing the transition from education to productive careers.

“I respectfully urge Nigerians to continue to engage with the ongoing NYSC reform conversation based on its broader objectives and the immense benefits it holds for our young people and our country,” he said.

“The reforms are designed to make the Scheme more relevant to today’s realities by improving employability, promoting entrepreneurship, strengthening national integration, enhancing service delivery, and creating a smoother transition from education to productive careers.”

He acknowledged the public interest in the proposed redesign of the NYSC uniform but cautioned against allowing the issue to overshadow the wider reforms aimed at empowering Nigerian youths.

“While conversations around the uniform are understandable, they should not overshadow the far-reaching reforms aimed at empowering millions of Nigerian youths and positioning the NYSC as a stronger platform for national development,” the minister said.

Olawande assured Nigerians that every proposal under consideration would be carefully evaluated before any final decision is taken in the national interest.