Former Senator Shehu Sani has made headlines with his call for the federal government to raise the monthly allowance for female National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to N100,000. This plea comes in response to the government’s recent announcement that the allowance for all corps members will increase to N77,000. Sani’s remarks highlight the ongoing discussions about gender equity and the support needed for women in the NYSC program.
The NYSC program was established to promote national unity and encourage young Nigerians to contribute to the development of their country. Participants, often fresh graduates, are deployed to various regions of Nigeria for a year of service. Historically, the monthly allowance provided to corps members has been a topic of debate, with many advocating for better compensation that reflects the rising cost of living.
In July 2024, the federal government plans to implement the new allowance of N77,000, which is a part of the adjustments following the enactment of the National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Act 2024. This law aims to provide fairer wages across various sectors, but some believe it still falls short, especially for specific groups like female corps members.
In a post on the social media platform X, Shehu Sani emphasized that female corps members face unique challenges that merit a higher allowance. He noted that women in the NYSC program often endure additional burdens, such as safety concerns and societal pressures, which can impact their overall experience and effectiveness during service.
He wrote: “The increase in the allowance of the Youth Corpers to 77k is commendable. But those of the Female Corpers should have been jerked up to 100k since they suffer more.”
Sani’s statement resonates with many who feel that the government should acknowledge the specific difficulties faced by female corps members, particularly in terms of financial support. By proposing a new allowance of N100,000, Sani aims to bring attention to these issues and advocate for better resources for women in service.
The government has stated that the allowance increase will take effect in July 2024, a decision communicated through a letter from the National Salaries, Incomes, and Wages Commission. Caroline Embu, the Acting Director of Information and Public Relations at NYSC, confirmed that this adjustment aligns with the new minimum wage law.
However, Sani’s call for a higher allowance raises questions about whether the government is doing enough to support female corps members. Critics argue that while the increase is a step in the right direction, it may not fully address the financial challenges faced by many in the program, especially women who may have additional responsibilities at home or in their communities.
Sani’s advocacy for a higher allowance for female corps members reflects a broader societal need for gender equity in Nigeria. Women often face unique challenges in various sectors, and their contributions to national service should be recognized and valued appropriately. This situation serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting women in all areas of public life, from education to employment and national service.
As the discussion surrounding the NYSC allowance continues, Shehu Sani’s call for increased support for female corps members is an important reminder of the need for equitable treatment in all aspects of society. The government’s decision to raise the overall allowance is a positive step, but further action is needed to ensure that female corps members receive the support they deserve. By addressing these issues, Nigeria can move closer to achieving true equality and recognizing the vital contributions of women in nation-building.
