The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called on the Federal Government to investigate the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) for failing to implement the approved increase in corps members’ monthly allowances from ₦33,000 to ₦77,000. This increase was sanctioned by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission in September 2024, with an effective date of July 2024.
Despite assurances from NYSC’s Director-General, Brigadier-General Yushau Ahmed, that the new allowance would commence in February 2025, corps members reported receiving only the previous amount of ₦33,000 for that month.
NANS, through its National Vice President for Inter-Campus Affairs, Akinbodunse Sileola Felicia, expressed disappointment over the delay and emphasized that other government sectors have already implemented the new minimum wage. The student body is urging the Federal Government to probe the NYSC’s failure to disburse the increased allowance as promised.
In response to the concerns, NYSC’s acting spokesperson, Mrs. Carol Lembu, stated that the scheme is awaiting the necessary funds from the Federal Government to implement the new allowance. This clarification suggests that the delay may be due to funding issues rather than administrative oversight within the NYSC.
The ongoing delay in implementing the increased allowance has caused frustration among corps members, who are struggling to meet their basic needs amid rising living costs. The situation underscores the need for prompt action to ensure that the approved allowances are disbursed without further delay.
