The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has announced an increase in corps members’ monthly allowance from ₦33,000 to ₦77,000, with payments set to begin in February 2025.
Brigadier General Yushau Ahmed, the NYSC Director-General, made the announcement on Thursday while addressing the 2024 Batch ‘C’ Stream II corps members in Katsina State.
General Ahmed confirmed that the Federal Government has approved the allowance increase and included it in the 2025 budget. He assured corps members that the new payment structure would take effect as soon as the budget is passed.
“The Federal Government has already approved the increment of your allowance. It is no longer news; we have the approval in our hands. What we are waiting for is just the passage of the budget,” he said.
He acknowledged that the payment could not begin in January since the budget has not yet been passed but reassured corps members that they would start receiving ₦77,000 from February.
“This month (January) has already ended, but once the budget is passed, by next month (February), you will start receiving ₦77,000 instead of the usual ₦33,000,” he added.
The NYSC boss used the opportunity to advise corps members to conduct themselves properly and avoid any form of misconduct that could jeopardize their future.
He emphasized that diligence, honesty, perseverance, and faith in God are essential for a successful life.
“Shun every form of misconduct and negative behaviour that can ruin your future ambitions. Be hardworking, honest, and determined to succeed,” he urged.
General Ahmed also encouraged corps members to respect the cultures and traditions of the communities where they are posted. He reminded them that they are ambassadors of the NYSC and should make efforts to integrate with their host communities.
“Respect the traditions and values of your host communities. Get to know them and contribute positively to their development,” he said.
He urged corps members to take the Community Development Service (CDS) projects seriously, either as individuals or in groups, to leave a lasting impact in their places of assignment.
“Add value to your host communities by initiating personal or group projects that will improve their standard of living,” he advised.
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The announcement has sparked excitement among corps members across the country, many of whom had been hoping for an increase in their allowance due to the rising cost of living.
“This is great news for us! The cost of living has become very high, and this increase will really help,” said Adebola James, a corps member serving in Lagos.
Another corps member, Hauwa Ibrahim, posted on social media, “Finally, we will be able to survive better with this new allowance. Thank you, NYSC!”
While the approval has been given, corps members will have to wait for the budget to be passed before they start receiving the new allowance. Many are hopeful that the process will be completed soon so they can enjoy the long-awaited financial relief.
The NYSC remains an essential program in Nigeria, bridging the gap between young graduates and national development. With this new allowance, corps members are expected to be more motivated to contribute positively to the communities where they serve.