Gele, Agbada loading? Internet goes wild over proposed NYSC uniform makeover

By Aderinola Abimbola

The Nigerian internet has in recent time, run wild over the proposal to replace the iconic National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) khaki uniform with locally-made Adire fabric.

The proposal, aimed at modernising the 53-year-old scheme, stirred mixed reactions from Nigerians who expressed their excitement, displeasure and heavy sarcasm.

Although the minister later clarified that Adire is just one of many ideas being reviewed and no final design has been locked in, Nigerians shared their two cents on the proposal.

Some fashion-forward Nigerians expressed their excitement for the proposal, noting that supporting local Adire makers pours money back into Nigerian communities rather than buying imported fabrics. 

Others, however, joked that NYSC orientation camps will now look like an endless weekend wedding party. Social media users questioned the government, asking if there are plans to add gele and agbada to complete the look. 

”Nice. Don’t forget to add gele,” one user commented.

”Cultural dance ya! Awade awade,” another stated.

While some Nigerians chose to focus on the humourous aspect of the proposal, others asked more important and practical questions.

”But adire is more peculiar to Yoruba people why are they now making it general,” one user pointed out, noting that the proposed fabric is not common in all zones.

Although young Nigerians are still finding humour in this shift, some are already pointing out the need for a more neutral option, noting that Adire is deeply rooted in Yoruba cultural heritage.