>Adire Fabric Set To Replace Khaki As New NYSC Uniform, Minister Confirms

In a bid to reduce costs and promote local manufacturing, the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has confirmed that Adire fabric will replace khaki as the new NYSC uniform. The reform is part of a broader overhaul of the National Youth Service Corps scheme.

The NYSC has been in operation for 53 years, with its last major reform in 1973. The new uniform is aimed at showcasing Nigerian culture and promoting local industries.

Adire fabric is a traditional Nigerian textile that is known for its beautiful patterns and vibrant colors. It is produced in various parts of the country, including Ogun and Kwara states.

The Minister spoke on Channels Television's The Morning Brief on Thursday, where he outlined the plans to reposition the NYSC as a skills-oriented, productivity-driven, and youth-empowerment institution.

Olawande explained that the decision to replace the khaki uniform with Adire fabric is part of the government's efforts to promote local manufacturing and reduce its reliance on foreign imports.

Under the new framework, corps members will be posted based on their areas of specialisation. Graduates with education-related qualifications will be posted to schools, rather than being deployed to other areas.

The Minister also said that the government is considering deploying prospective corps members to regions where they studied and are familiar with the environment, particularly in areas affected by insecurity.

The reforms follow approval by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) on Monday of a comprehensive overhaul of the NYSC. The FEC directed the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Ministry of Youth Development to amend the NYSC Act and its regulations to accommodate the approved reforms and facilitate their implementation.

The aim of the reforms is to reposition the NYSC as a skills-oriented, productivity-driven, and youth-empowerment institution that aligns with the Federal Government's goal of building a $1 trillion economy.

The reforms are expected to benefit the Nigerian economy by promoting local manufacturing and reducing the country's reliance on foreign imports. The NYSC is a key player in promoting national unity and development in Nigeria.