The Federal Government of Nigeria has taken a significant step to increase the monthly allowance of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members. From July 2024, corps members will receive N77,000 each month, a substantial rise from the previous allowance of N33,000. This change was officially announced on September 25, 2024, through a statement on the National Youth Service Corps’ Facebook page.
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) was established to promote national unity and encourage Nigerian graduates to serve their country. Each year, thousands of young Nigerians are deployed across the country to work in different sectors such as education, healthcare, and government services. In return for their service, corps members receive a monthly allowance, known as “allawee,” to help cover living expenses during their service year.
Since the program’s creation in 1973, NYSC allowances have undergone several adjustments to reflect economic conditions. The last major increase occurred in 2020 when the Federal Government raised the payment from N19,800 to N33,000. However, with the rising cost of living and inflation in Nigeria, corps members and citizens have long called for another adjustment.
The new allowance of N77,000 represents a 133% increase over the current N33,000, and is expected to take effect from July 2024. This decision follows various discussions about the need to adjust the NYSC allowance to match the economic realities faced by corps members across the country. Many corps members have struggled to meet basic needs like rent, food, and transportation due to the high cost of living, especially in urban areas.
The announcement came as a welcome surprise to many current corps members, who have faced challenges due to Nigeria’s economic situation. By increasing the allowance, the government aims to ease financial pressure on corps members and make their service year more comfortable and productive.
The allowance increase comes in response to growing calls for better welfare for corps members. Over the years, NYSC members have often found themselves facing financial challenges, especially in states with a high cost of living. The government recognized the need to support these young Nigerians who contribute to national development by working in various sectors across the country.
Additionally, the increase aligns with efforts to adjust salaries and wages across different sectors of the country’s workforce. It reflects the government’s commitment to improving the conditions under which corps members serve, and to supporting youth engagement and development.
The new N77,000 allowance will make a significant difference in the lives of corps members. For many, the increase will allow them to cover their daily expenses more easily, helping them to focus more on their service without the constant worry of making ends meet.
The rise in allowance is particularly important for corps members serving in remote areas, where the cost of living may be higher due to limited access to basic amenities. The increased funds will also empower corps members to invest in personal projects, save for their post-service plans, or contribute positively to the communities they serve.
For current and prospective corps members, the increase comes as a morale booster, ensuring that they feel more valued for their contributions to national development. This also underscores the importance the Federal Government places on youth and their role in nation-building.
The Federal Government’s decision to raise the NYSC monthly allowance to N77,000 marks an important step in improving the welfare of corps members. The increase, effective July 2024, will provide corps members with greater financial stability, allowing them to focus on their duties during their service year. This decision highlights the government’s recognition of the crucial role NYSC members play in community development and nation-building.
As corps members prepare for the new allowance structure, this development is expected to positively impact not only their well-being but also their contribution to national unity and progress.
The statement reads;
“The Federal Government has approved the increment of Corps Members’ monthly allowance to Seventy-Seven Thousand Naira (N77,000) with effect from July 2024.
This is in line with the enactment of the National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Act 2024. This was contained in a letter from the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission, dated 25th September 2024 and signed by the Chairman, Mr. Ekpo Nta.
Prior to this, the Director General, NYSC Brigadier General YD Ahmed, had paid an advocacy visit to the Chairman in which he solicited for a robust welfare package for Corps Members.
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.”
