By our Reporter
The Federal Government has clarified that no final decision has been taken on changing the uniform of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), following widespread media reports triggered by comments made during a television interview on the ongoing reforms of the Scheme.
In a statement issued after his appearance on Channels Television on Thursday, the official behind the ongoing NYSC reform process explained that references to Adire and Ankara fabrics during the interview were merely examples of proposals received during consultations and should not be interpreted as an official announcement.
He said his comments were intended to highlight some of the options being considered and not to confirm the adoption of any particular fabric for the NYSC uniform.
“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 stated.
The official stressed that the reform committee is considering various options that meet key requirements, including a professional outlook, a distinct national identity, durability, functionality, cost-effectiveness, and the promotion of national pride.
He emphasized that no final decision has been reached on either the fabric or the design of the proposed uniform, adding that any eventual choice would be guided by extensive stakeholder consultations and what best serves the interests of the NYSC and the country.
Reiterating the broader objectives of the ongoing reforms, he urged Nigerians to focus on the comprehensive transformation of the Scheme rather than the debate over its uniform.
According to him, the reforms are designed to make the NYSC more responsive to current realities by improving the employability of corps members, promoting entrepreneurship, strengthening national integration, enhancing service delivery, and ensuring a smoother transition from education to productive careers.
He noted that while discussions about the NYSC uniform are understandable, they should not distract from the wider reform agenda aimed at empowering millions of Nigerian youths and repositioning the Scheme as a stronger platform for national development.
The official also expressed appreciation for the constructive feedback received from Nigerians, assuring the public that every proposal under consideration would be carefully evaluated in the overall interest of the nation.
