FG Yet to Pay NYSC ₦77,000 Allowance—Corps Members Threaten Protest

Frustration is mounting among members of Nigeria’s National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) due to the Federal Government’s delay in implementing the approved increase of their monthly allowance from ₦33,000 to ₦77,000. Despite the official announcement in September 2024 that the increment would take effect from July 2024, corps members continue to receive the previous amount, leading to widespread disappointment and calls for prompt action.

The Federal Government’s approval of the allowance increase was intended to enhance the welfare of corps members, aligning with the National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Act 2024. The National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission communicated this directive in a letter dated September 25, 2024, signed by its Chairman, Ekpo Nta.

 However, despite these assurances, the disbursement of the increased allowance has yet to commence, causing growing concern among the affected individuals.

In response to the delay, the Director-General of NYSC, Brigadier General Yushau Ahmed, addressed the issue during the inauguration of a bus donated to the scheme by Capital Express Insurance Ltd. He acknowledged the concerns of corps members and assured them that all necessary arrangements to effect the payment had been put in place. Ahmed stated, “Corps members will laugh very soon, that I assure you.”

 Despite this reassurance, the prolonged delay has led to increased agitation among corps members, with some expressing skepticism about the implementation timeline.

The delay in implementing the allowance increment has sparked debates among stakeholders, with some corps members threatening to stage protests if the new allowance is not paid promptly. They argue that the delay demonstrates a lack of respect for their welfare and undermines the commitment of Nigerian youths dedicated to serving the nation.

The situation has also drawn reactions from the public, with some Nigerians calling for the scrapping of the NYSC program if the government fails to fulfill its promise. They argue that the program, established to promote national unity and development, loses its relevance if the welfare of corps members is neglected.

As the discontent continues to grow, corps members and concerned citizens are urging the Federal Government to expedite the implementation of the new allowance. They emphasize that timely payment of the increased allowance is crucial not only for the welfare of the corps members but also for maintaining the credibility of the NYSC program and the government’s commitment to youth development.

In conclusion, the delay in disbursing the approved ₦77,000 monthly allowance to NYSC members has led to widespread dissatisfaction and calls for immediate action. The Federal Government is urged to address this issue promptly to uphold its commitment to the welfare of corps members and ensure the continued relevance of the NYSC program in promoting national unity and development.