NYSC Khaki Uniform to Be Replaced With Adire – Youth Minister

The Federal Government has announced plans to replace the traditional khaki uniform worn by members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) with Adire fabric as part of the newly approved reforms of the scheme.

The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, disclosed the development during an interview on Channels Television's The Morning Brief on Thursday.

According to the minister, the decision is aimed at promoting local industries and ensuring that government spending supports Nigerian manufacturers and textile producers.

Olawande explained that Adire is produced locally in states such as Ogun and Kwara, adding that adopting the fabric would encourage domestic production and strengthen the country's textile industry.

He said the government intends to keep more public spending within the Nigerian economy by sourcing materials locally.

Beyond the uniform change, the minister revealed that corps members would now be deployed based on their academic qualifications and professional training.

He explained that graduates of education-related courses, for example, would be posted to schools in line with their areas of specialisation rather than through the existing random posting system.

According to Olawande, the new approach is designed to ensure that corps members contribute more effectively in sectors where they possess relevant skills and expertise.

Addressing concerns over insecurity, the minister said the government is also considering posting corps members to states or regions where they studied or are already familiar with the environment.

He noted that such a policy could help reduce security concerns among parents and prospective corps members while improving confidence in the scheme.

Olawande also dismissed speculation that the military would be removed from the NYSC orientation programme.

He clarified that the military would continue to play an important role, stressing that the proposed reforms seek to shift the focus from military-style mobilisation to broader civilian and national development objectives rather than eliminating military participation altogether.