The federal government has unveiled plans to replace the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) khaki uniform with Adire fabric as part of a broader reform programme for the scheme.
Ayodele Olawande, the minister of youth development, announced the policy on Thursday during an interview on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, saying the initiative is intended to strengthen Nigeria’s local manufacturing sector.
According to the minister, the new uniform will be produced entirely within the country, creating more opportunities for local textile makers while reducing dependence on imported materials.
He said Adire production has expanded across several states, making it a practical option for the NYSC uniform.
“Our focus is to ensure that government patronage benefits Nigerian businesses. Adire is produced locally, and this is one way of investing public funds back into our economy,” Olawande said.
He explained that the policy is expected to stimulate the textile industry, encourage indigenous craftsmanship and create additional demand for locally manufactured fabrics.
The minister also disclosed that the Federal Government is reviewing the NYSC deployment process to ensure corps members are assigned to organisations where their academic qualifications and professional skills can be better utilised.
He said the reforms are designed to improve the impact of the national service programme while aligning graduates’ postings with the country’s manpower needs.
