FG to Replace NYSC Khaki with Adire as Reforms Introduce Skills-Based Deployment

BY NKECHI NAECHE-ESEZOBOR —The Federal Government has announced plans to replace the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) traditional khaki uniform with Adire as part of wide-ranging reforms aimed at promoting local manufacturing, improving corps deployment and repositioning the scheme for greater national impact.

Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, disclosed the development on Thursday during an appearance on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, saying the new uniform would be produced locally to support Nigeria’s textile industry and keep government spending within the country.

Olawande also revealed that corps members would increasingly be deployed based on their academic qualifications and professional skills. He explained that graduates with education-related degrees, for instance, would be posted to schools, replacing the existing system where postings are not always linked to areas of expertise.

The minister said the new deployment framework would become clearer after orientation camp, ensuring corps members are assigned to organisations that align with their training and can maximise their contributions during the service year.

On security, Olawande said the government is considering posting prospective corps members to regions where they studied or are already familiar with the environment, particularly in areas facing security challenges. He said the approach would reduce concerns among parents and make deployments more practical.

He also dismissed reports that the military would be removed from the NYSC, stressing that the Armed Forces would continue to provide security and support, while the scheme’s operational leadership would be headed by a civilian.

The reforms follow the Federal Executive Council’s approval of a comprehensive overhaul of the NYSC, the first major review of the scheme since its establishment 53 years ago. The Attorney-General of the Federation and the Ministry of Youth Development have been directed to amend the NYSC Act and relevant regulations to enable implementation.

According to the government, the reforms are designed to transform the NYSC into a skills-driven, productivity-focused and youth empowerment institution that aligns with the Federal Government’s vision of building a $1 trillion economy.