The Federal Government has approved a new monthly allowance of N77,000 for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, effective from July 2024.
A statement issued by Caroline Embu, Acting Director of Information and Public Relations for the NYSC, revealed that this decision follows a letter from the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission, dated September 25, 2024. The letter was signed by Chairman Ekpo Nta and aligns with the National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Act 2024.
Prior to this adjustment, corps members received N33,000 monthly, a figure that had been established following the minimum wage increase to N30,000 in 2019. President Bola Tinubu signed the new Minimum Wage Bill into law on July 29, 2024, which set the minimum wage at N70,000.
Following the announcement of the increased minimum wage, there had been speculation about potential raises for corps members. However, the NYSC management clarified that any adjustment to their allowances must come from the Federal Government.
In her statement, Embu mentioned that NYSC Director General Brigadier-General Yusha’u Ahmed had previously advocated for improved welfare for corps members during a visit with the Chairman of the Commission.
The Director General expressed gratitude to the government for this increase, emphasizing its importance in uplifting the spirits of corps members and encouraging them to enhance their contributions to national service.
“The Federal Government has approved the increase of corps members’ monthly allowance to N77,000 effective from July 2024, as per the National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Act 2024. This decision was communicated through a letter dated September 25, 2024,” Embu stated.
Brigadier General Ahmed is optimistic that this timely gesture will provide essential support to corps members and motivate them in their service to the country.
