The federal government has approved an increase in the monthly allowance for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, raising it to N77,000 from N33,000.
According to a statement released on NYSC’s X page by Acting Director of Information and Public Relations, Caroline Embu, corps members will now receive N77,000 per month, a notable rise from the previous N33,000.
This new allowance structure is set to take effect from July 2024, aligning with the recently enacted National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Act 2024.
The announcement cites a letter dated 25 September from the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission, signed by Chairman Ekpo Nta, which confirms the allowance increment.
This boost in stipend comes as a result of persistent advocacy efforts, particularly highlighted by NYSC Director General Yusha’u Ahmed’s visit to the National Salaries, Incomes, and Wages Commission.
Reflecting on the significance of this increase, NYSC Director General Yusha’u Ahmed expressed his gratitude to the government.
He stated that the new allowance would provide “much-needed relief” and significantly boost the morale of corps members across the country.
This latest adjustment marks the first increase in NYSC allowances in five years, following the previous raise from N19,800 to N33,000. The timing of this increase is particularly noteworthy, coming on the heels of President Bola Tinubu’s signing of the minimum wage bill into law in July 2024. This legislative action concluded months of negotiations between the government and labor unions, including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC).
The road to this new minimum wage was not without its challenges. Labor unions had resorted to an indefinite strike to press their demands for improved wages in the face of rising living costs. The culmination of these efforts saw President Tinubu assent to the amended Minimum Wage Act, 2019, which elevated the National Minimum Wage from ₦30,000 to ₦70,000 following its passage through the National Assembly.
For NYSC members, the implications of this increase are substantial. Starting from July, corps members will receive an additional N44,000 per month, with the increase being applied retroactively. This retroactive application means that corps members can expect a significant boost in their finances, providing much-needed support amidst the country’s ongoing economic challenges, particularly the rising cost of living and inflation.
The NYSC program, established in 1973, has been a cornerstone of Nigeria’s efforts to foster national unity and develop skilled manpower.
This increase in allowances is expected to further motivate corps members and enhance their ability to contribute meaningfully during their service year.
