By Our Reporter
The Federal Government has reportedly announced plans to replace the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC)’s iconic khaki uniform with locally produced Adire fabric as part of sweeping reforms aimed at overhauling the 53-year-old scheme.
Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, reportedly disclosed the move during an interview on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, saying the new uniform is intended to promote Nigeria’s textile industry and ensure government spending supports local manufacturers. “It’s Adire… Let’s put our money back into the country,” he said.
The proposed switch reportedly marks one of the most symbolic changes under the newly approved NYSC reforms, which also include skills-based deployment, longer orientation camps, and adjustments to postings in response to security concerns.
However, the announcement has triggered mixed reactions, with many Nigerians questioning the decision to retire the khaki uniform, long regarded as the defining symbol of national service. Critics argue that replacing it with a culturally specific attire could undermine the NYSC’s national identity, while others have raised concerns over the practicality, cost, and broader implications of the change.