NYSC Members Disappointed Over Unpaid N77,000 Allowance

National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Members Express Frustration Over Unpaid Allowance Increase

Members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) have voiced their dissatisfaction regarding the Federal Government’s failure to implement the increased monthly allowance of N77,000 that was announced in September. These corps members believe the delay in receiving the new allowance demonstrates a lack of respect for their welfare and the commitment of Nigerian youths who are dedicated to serving the nation.

In September, the NYSC disclosed that the allowance for corps members would rise from N33,000 to N77,000 starting in July 2024. This announcement was made through an official statement by the Acting Director of Information and Public Relations, Caroline Embu, and was documented in a letter dated September 24, signed by Mr. Ekpo Nta, Chairman of the National Salaries, Incomes, and Wages Commission.

Despite the announcement of the allowance increase, corps members report that they continue to receive the original amount of N33,000. Laolu, a corps member stationed in Kwara State, expressed frustration, stating, “If there was no intention to pay the new amount, or if they are unable to implement it, why even announce it? We are part of the responsibilities the government should uphold. If they cannot honor the increase, they should retract the announcement so we can stop holding on to false hopes and facing disappointment.”

Similarly, Damilola, a corps member in Kebbi State, echoed this sentiment, expressing skepticism about the government’s reliability. “Trusting this government is a gamble. I’d be shocked if they actually pay that amount before my Passing Out parade,” she remarked.

Idris, another corps member serving in the nation’s capital, Abuja, shared his concerns about daily expenses, noting, “Yesterday, they paid us N33,000 again. I’m in Abuja, for goodness’ sake. That amount barely covers transportation costs, let alone other essential needs. How are we expected to make ends meet?”

Efforts to obtain a statement from the NYSC’s Caroline Embu were unsuccessful, as her phone lines were unreachable, and she had not responded to messages via WhatsApp at the time of this report.