The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has announced a significant increase in corps members’ monthly allowance, raising it from ₦33,000 to ₦77,000. The news has sparked celebrations among new and serving corps members, who see this as a long-awaited relief from financial struggles.
Brigadier General Yusha’u Dogara Ahmed, the NYSC Director-General, confirmed the adjustment, linking it to the recent upward review of the national minimum wage. He assured corps members that the increase would take effect soon. “This is in line with the federal government’s commitment to improving the welfare of corps members,” he stated.

The new allowance follows President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to raise the minimum wage from ₦30,000 to ₦70,000. The development has been widely welcomed, with many corps members taking to social media to express their excitement. “This is a game-changer. Now we can survive the economic realities of Nigeria,” a corps member in Lagos said.
NYSC officials have assured corps members that all necessary arrangements for payment are in place. The finance department is working with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to facilitate smooth disbursement. “We are finalising the necessary processes to ensure prompt payment,” an NYSC spokesperson confirmed.
Corps members in various states have expressed relief over the increment. Many have struggled with the rising cost of living, including transportation, rent, and feeding. “This is a huge relief. Life in Abuja is expensive, and this will make things easier,” said a corps member serving in the capital.
Economic analysts believe the increase will impact the economy positively, as corps members will have more purchasing power. Dr. Bismarck Rewane, a financial analyst, noted that the move aligns with efforts to mitigate the effects of inflation. “This increase will help young graduates navigate financial challenges during their service year,” he said.
Parents and guardians have also reacted positively, expressing gratitude to the government for prioritising corps members’ welfare. “This increase will reduce the financial burden on parents who still support their children during NYSC,” said Mrs. Grace Olatunji, a parent in Ibadan.

State governments have been urged to support corps members further by improving accommodation and welfare packages. Some states already provide additional stipends to corps members in critical sectors like education and health. “We encourage state governments to complement this increase by enhancing corps members’ welfare,” said the NYSC Director-General.
The private sector has also weighed in, urging corps members to use the increment wisely. “This is an opportunity to develop financial discipline. They should consider savings and investments,” advised Mr. Uche Orji, an investment expert.
Despite the excitement, some corps members have called for improved working conditions and security. Serving in remote areas remains a concern due to inadequate infrastructure. “The allowance increase is great, but security and welfare need attention too,” said a corps member posted to a rural community in the North.

Labour unions have applauded the decision, seeing it as a step in the right direction. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) commended the federal government for acknowledging the plight of corps members. “This increase is necessary considering inflation and economic realities,” said NLC President, Joe Ajaero.
While the announcement has sparked celebrations, some experts caution that the increment should be backed by stable economic policies. Economist Dr. Ayo Teriba warns that inflation could erode the value of the increase if not properly managed. “The government must implement measures to stabilise prices so that corps members fully benefit from this raise,” he stated.
Some former corps members have expressed mixed feelings, wishing such an increase had come during their service years. “We struggled with ₦33,000, but I’m happy that new corps members won’t go through the same,” said a 2022 NYSC graduate.

The private sector is expected to respond by adjusting allowances for corps members in their employment. Some organisations already offer additional stipends to attract skilled graduates. “We will review our corps members’ compensation in light of this development,” said an HR manager at a leading tech firm.
The federal government has urged corps members to utilise the increment responsibly, emphasising the importance of financial literacy. The NYSC Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme is expected to receive more attention as corps members explore business opportunities. “This increase should motivate corps members to invest in their future,” said an NYSC official.
Many corps members are now optimistic about their service year, with some planning to save towards further education or business ventures. “I will use part of my allowance to take professional courses,” said a corps member in Kano.
Public reaction has largely been positive, though some critics argue that the increase should extend to entry-level workers in government agencies. “It’s great for corps members, but what about young graduates struggling to get jobs?” asked a social media user.
As corps members anticipate their first ₦77,000 payment, the NYSC remains committed to ensuring smooth implementation. The finance department is expected to provide updates on disbursement timelines soon. “We will communicate the exact payment date shortly,” an NYSC official assured.
The new allowance will redefine the NYSC experience, giving corps members greater financial stability. While challenges remain, this increase signals a renewed commitment to youth empowerment. Corps members are urged to use this opportunity to build a solid financial foundation for life after NYSC.
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