FG Boosts Corps Members’ Allowance to ₦77,000
In a bold move aimed at uplifting the welfare of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, the Federal Government has approved a significant increase in their monthly allowance, raising it from ₦33,000 to an impressive ₦77,000. The increment, set to take effect in July 2024, is a direct result of the newly enacted National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Act 2024.
According to a statement by Caroline Embu, spokesperson for the NYSC, the adjustment reflects the government’s commitment to recognizing the invaluable contributions of corps members to national development. Embu cited a letter from the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission, signed by its Chairman, Ekpo Nta, as the formal confirmation of the hike.
This move follows a strategic advocacy by the NYSC’s Director General, Brigadier General YD Ahmed, who had personally visited the Commission to push for a better welfare package for corps members. His efforts have clearly paid off, as the government’s approval is expected to not only ease financial pressures on corps members but also elevate their morale during their year of national service.
“The NYSC Boss is thankful to the Federal Government for the timely gesture and is optimistic that it will not only bring much-needed succour to the Corps Members but also boost their morale and motivate them to do even more, in their service to the nation,” Embu stated.
Before this latest increase, the NYSC had last raised the monthly allowance from ₦19,800 to ₦33,000 in 2020, after the passage of the National Minimum Wage Act, 2019. Now, with President Bola Tinubu recently signing a new minimum wage law that sets the national threshold at ₦70,000, corps members are set to benefit from one of the most substantial increases in recent times.
This significant boost in their allowance signals the government’s recognition of the challenges young Nigerians face and its commitment to ensuring that service to the nation is met with adequate financial support. As the new policy rolls out in mid-2024, many are hopeful that this step will inspire greater dedication and patriotism among the country’s youth as they continue to serve in various sectors across Nigeria.
The increase is sure to be celebrated by corps members nationwide, as it promises to enhance their standard of living and empower them to make the most of their service year.
