He disclosed the true position few hours after his earlier comments on the proposed change of uniform generated widespread reactions across the country.
Olawande, in a statement published on his official X handle on Thursday, said reports suggesting that Adire had been adopted to replace the iconic Khaki uniform of corps members misrepresented his remarks during an appearance on Channels Television’s breakfast show, ‘The Morning Brief’, earlier in the day.
The minister stated that while he mentioned Adire and Ankara during the interview, they were only examples of proposals being considered as part of the ongoing reform of the scheme, adding that “No final decision has been taken on the fabric or design.”
“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 said.
According to Olawande, the government was considering options that “tick all the right boxes in terms of professional outlook, a unique national identity, durability, functionality, cost-effectiveness, and the projection of national pride.”
He said any eventual decision would be guided by extensive stakeholder consultations and what best serves the interests of the NYSC and the country.
The minister also urged Nigerians not to allow the debate over the proposed uniform to overshadow the broader objectives of the ongoing reforms of the scheme.
“The reforms are designed to make the Scheme more relevant to today’s realities by improving employability, promoting entrepreneurship, strengthening national integration, enhancing service delivery, and creating a smoother transition from education to productive careers.
“While conversations around the uniform are understandable, they should not overshadow the far-reaching reforms aimed at empowering millions of Nigerian youths and positioning the NYSC as a stronger platform for national development,” he stated.
