Youth Minister Says Proposed NYSC Uniforms Will Be Made in Nigeria

The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has expressed optimism that the proposed new uniforms for members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) will be produced locally as part of efforts to promote indigenous industries and strengthen the Nigerian economy.

Speaking during a television interview, Olawande said the fabric being considered for the uniforms is locally produced Adire, stressing that Nigeria has the capacity to manufacture the materials domestically.

“It’s Ankara, it’s Adire. Adire is being produced in Nigeria. We have them in Ogun, we have them in Kwara, we have the textile industry. Let’s put our money back into the country,” he said.

The minister explained that the proposed reforms involving the NYSC are already underway but noted that implementation would be gradual, as some aspects require legislative backing while others can proceed without amendments to the law.

“There is nothing like this year or next year. It’s a process. We have been in the process. We are looking at those that we can implement without the Act, and we are looking at those that will wait for the Act,” he said.

Olawande added that his ministry is engaging the National Assembly to expedite the required legal reforms, describing them as important measures that deserve urgent attention.

He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for being receptive to ideas and policy proposals, saying the President listens to stakeholders and is willing to support reforms that will benefit the country.

According to the minister, the proposed changes are the product of more than a year of consultations and committee engagements, acknowledging that while the reforms may not be easy, they are necessary for the future of the NYSC and the nation’s youth development agenda.