NYSC DG Announces N77,000 Allowance Starting February

The Director General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Yushau Ahmed, has announced that corps members, starting from February 2025 will receive a revised monthly allowance of N77,000. This decision marks a substantial rise from the previous allowance of N33,000, addressing long-standing calls for better compensation for NYSC corpers amidst Nigeria’s challenging economic climate.

The Announcement

Brigadier General Ahmed made this announcement while addressing the 2024 Batch ‘C’ Stream II corps members in Katsina. He emphasized that the new allowance is reflected in the Federal Government’s 2025 budget. “This month (January) has already ended, but once the budget is passed, by next month (February), you will start receiving N77,000 instead of the usual N33,000,” the DG stated.

Context and Background

The adjustment in corps members’ allowances comes on the heels of broader discussions around the national minimum wage, which was recently revised. The increase to N77,000 aligns with the National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Act 2024, which sought to provide relief to workers across various sectors in response to economic pressures, including inflation and the rising cost of living.

Previously, there had been delays in the implementation of this new allowance, primarily due to funding issues, but will be effective once the budget is passed in February, as confirmed by the NYSC DG. The initiative is part of a larger effort by the government to enhance the welfare package for those serving under the NYSC scheme, which has been a cornerstone of Nigeria’s post-civil war reconciliation and integration since its inception in the 1970s.

Looking Forward

The increase in the monthly allowance is expected to have a positive reffect on the economy, as it would likely lead to increased spending power among young graduates. It’s also seen as a step towards making the NYSC service more attractive, potentially improving participation rates and the quality of community service projects undertaken by corps members.

The NYSC continues to assure its members that their welfare, including security, remains a top priority. General Ahmed reiterated that corps members would not be posted to areas with security threats, emphasizing the safety of corps members, also he encouraged corps members to show dedication and commitment throughout their service in gratitude for the Federal Government’s support.

This significant policy change by the NYSC is a testament to the government’s responsiveness to the needs of its young workforce, particularly those contributing through national service. As February 2025 approaches, the eyes of many will be on how this new allowance impacts the lives of corps members and the broader implications for Nigeria’s youth development and national service framework.

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