FG replaces NYSC khaki uniform with Adire in major reforms

The Federal Government has announced that the traditional khaki uniform worn by members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) will be replaced with Adire fabric as part of the ongoing reforms of the scheme.

Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, disclosed the development on Thursday, explaining that the decision is aimed at promoting local production and ensuring government spending supports Nigeria’s textile industry and economy.

He said Adire is produced in different parts of the country, including Ogun and Kwara states, adding that the policy is intended to channel public funds into local industries and create more economic opportunities for Nigerian manufacturers.

Beyond the uniform change, the minister said the government is restructuring the NYSC deployment process to ensure corps members are posted according to their academic qualifications and professional backgrounds.

Under the new arrangement, graduates will be assigned to places of primary assignment based on the career pathways and skills identified during the orientation camp, rather than through the existing general posting system.

Olawande also disclosed that the government is reviewing deployment policies in response to security concerns, with greater consideration to posting corps members to areas where they studied or are familiar with the environment, particularly in regions facing security challenges.

He clarified that the military would not be removed from the NYSC despite the reforms. According to him, while the scheme’s operational leadership will become civilian-led, the military will continue to provide security support during orientation camps and other NYSC activities.

The reforms follow the Federal Executive Council’s approval of a comprehensive overhaul of the NYSC, the first major restructuring of the scheme in more than five decades.

As part of the changes, the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Ministry of Youth Development have been directed to amend the NYSC Act and other relevant regulations to facilitate the implementation of the reforms.

The government said the reforms are designed to transform the NYSC into a more skills-driven, productivity-focused and youth-empowerment programme that aligns with Nigeria’s economic development goals.