The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially approved a significant increase in the monthly allowance of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to Seventy-Seven Thousand Naira (₦77,000). This adjustment is set to take effect from July 2024.
The increase comes in response to the recently enacted National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Act of 2024, reflecting the government’s commitment to aligning wages across all sectors. This decision was communicated through a letter issued by the National Salaries, Incomes, and Wages Commission, dated 25th September 2024. The letter was signed by the Commission’s Chairman, Mr. Ekpo Nta.
Prior to the announcement, the Director-General of the NYSC, Brigadier General Y.D. Ahmed, had engaged in discussions with Mr. Nta during an advocacy visit. During the meeting, Brigadier General Ahmed advocated for a more substantial welfare package for Corps Members, emphasizing the need to address the economic challenges they face while serving their country.
In response to the increase, the NYSC Director-General expressed his gratitude to the Federal Government, describing the move as timely and crucial. He stated that the allowance boost would provide much-needed financial relief to Corps Members, many of whom are posted to remote and underserved communities. Brigadier General Ahmed also noted that the increase would enhance morale, motivating Corps Members to be more dedicated in their service to the nation.
Before this latest adjustment, the monthly allowance for NYSC members stood at Thirty-Three Thousand Naira (₦33,000), a figure that had been in place since 2020. The ₦77,000 increase marks a major step in improving the welfare of Corps Members and ensuring that their compensation reflects current economic realities.
The NYSC, established in 1973, remains a vital institution in Nigeria, fostering unity and national development by deploying fresh graduates to different parts of the country for their one-year mandatory service. This latest wage increase is expected to further empower the Corps Members to contribute positively to their host communities and the nation at large.
