This amount will be sure to aid many fresh graduates fulfilling their duties to the nation during their NYSC year.
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From what I have witnessed, many serving corps members have remained hopeful toward their allowances receiving an increase.
Previously, the monthly allowance was far lower than the current rate, leading many to claim the amount provided was not sustainable due to inflation.
With this new announcement, there is optimism that corps members will be better funded during their time serving the nation.
As reported by the acting director of information and public relations, Caroline Embu, who spoke to the media, General Nafiu’s statement was met with praise from journalists.
Even Punch Confirmed that He went on to guarantee every corps member that the management of NYSC alongside the Federal Government fully stands behind their well being.
Additionally, General Nafiu addressed concerns regarding the welfare of members and made it clear that this was a primary objective for him and motivating factors behind the increased allowance.
This decision is not made in isolation. It follows the recent changes in the national minimum wage. The Federal Government enacted the National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Act 2024, which raised the national minimum wage to Seventy Thousand Naira.
With this legislative change, the government felt it necessary to adjust the allowances of NYSC members to align with the new wage structure.
As a result, the allowance for corps members is now set at Seventy-Seven Thousand Naira per month, a significant increase from the previous amount.
To accommodate this increase, the Federal Government allocated a large sum in the 2025 budget. A total of N430.7 billion was allocated to the NYSC, with N72.9 billion earmarked specifically for the new monthly allowances of corps members.
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This allocation shows the government’s commitment to supporting the welfare of our youth during their national service.
However, despite the clear approval and budgetary provisions, there have been some delays in the disbursement of the increased allowance.
As of February 2025, many corps members continued to receive the old stipend of Thirty-Three Thousand Naira. This has led to some understandable frustration and anxiety among corps members who have been waiting eagerly for the higher amount.
I have listened to many stories from corps members who are hopeful that the new allowance will be implemented soon.
They are looking forward to this change as it means they will be able to better manage their living expenses during their service year.
In a recent statement on the NYSC platform, General Nafiu said, “With effect from March, you are going to receive the sum of Seventy-Seven Thousand Naira as your monthly allowance.
The Nation and the Scheme appreciate you.” These words bring reassurance to many young people who have devoted themselves to national service.
It is not only an improvement in their financial conditions, but it also recognises their hard work and sacrifice for the country.
I remember when I first started my journey in national service. Times were difficult and every naira counted. My colleagues and I had to plan carefully to make sure we could meet our daily expenses.
I have seen how a higher allowance can reduce stress and allow corps members to focus on their service rather than worrying about money. This change, therefore, is a much-needed relief for many.
The process of adjusting the allowance began when the National Salaries, Incomes, and Wages Commission (NSIWC) issued a letter in September 2024. This letter approved the increment of corps members’ monthly allowances from Thirty-Three Thousand Naira to Seventy-Seven Thousand Naira. The letter was a direct response to the increase in the national minimum wage.
I have observed that many decisions by the government are interlinked; when one policy changes, others must follow to maintain balance and fairness.
In this case, the increase in the minimum wage meant that NYSC allowances needed to be revised to keep pace with the cost of living.
The new monthly allowance of Seventy-Seven Thousand Naira (#77,000) is expected to make a noticeable difference in the lives of corps members. For instance, many young graduates will now have more money to pay for transportation, food, and other daily necessities during their service.
I have spoken to some corps members who are very optimistic about this change. They say that with the increased allowance, they will have better opportunities to save money or invest in small businesses, which could help them after their service year ends.
In addition to the increased allowance, the NYSC management has promised better record keeping. The NYSC is known for maintaining accurate records, and this means that once the new allowance is implemented, every corps member can be sure that their money will be paid correctly and on time. This reliability is very important to students and graduates who depend on their allowances to manage their expenses.
The new allowance also comes with a reminder from General Nafiu. He urged all corps members to remain calm, disciplined, and focused on their national assignments.
He reminded them of the vision of the NYSC’s founding fathers and emphasised that the scheme plays a crucial role in fostering national unity by exposing young graduates to different cultures and traditions across Nigeria.
I have always believed that the NYSC is more than just a programme; it is a platform that brings people together and builds bridges between different parts of our nation.
In his address, General Nafiu also acknowledged the importance of prompt implementation. He stated that the payment of the new allowance would be executed as soon as possible. This assurance has been well received by corps members who have been waiting for this change.
I have seen the relief on their faces when they hear such announcements, as it gives them hope for a better financial situation during their service.
One important point that the government has made is that the increased allowance is meant to support the well-being of corps members.
This support is seen as a recognition of their hard work and dedication to national development. I have always been proud of the role that the NYSC plays in our country, and this step further underscores the government’s commitment to our youth.
As we look forward to March 2025, corps members are advised to remain patient and keep a close eye on announcements from the NYSC and the Federal Government.
The transition to the new allowance might come with some temporary delays, but the promise is there, and it is expected to take effect as announced.
In my experience, clear and timely communication from authorities makes a big difference. I have learned that staying informed through official channels, such as the NYSC website and trusted news sources, helps to manage expectations and reduce anxiety.
I encourage all corps members to regularly check for updates and to share any concerns with their supervisors.
Let me summarise the key points:
Members of the NYSC will now receive their monthly allowance starting from March 2025 and it has been set to a total of Seventy-Seven Thousand Naira.
This was decided after there was an increase in the national minimum wage alongside the permission by the National Salaries, Incomes, and Wages Commission.
Although there have been delays in making the payments, corps members have been promised that the payment will be made on time and that the NYSC is looking after their welfare.
It has also been said by Management that attention must be paid to the maintenance of records and compliance with the rules of the Scheme.
This comes as welcome news to many young graduates as it will ease the financial burden that they face. Having this additional support will enable people to take care of their daily costs, save, or even help start new businesses.
Stress from financial problems can dampen a student’s performance and as someone who has been there, I strongly believe that this change will be beneficial.
To conclude, I would like to emphasize that the outcome of every program is largely tied to our commitment and the backing we get from our leadership.
My personal observation is that whenever we are nurtured and given support, we tend to be more productive and give more back to the community.
The new NYSC allowance is more than just a monetary payment; it acknowledges the dedication of our corps members and assures them that there are safe conditions for them to serve the country.
Thank you for taking the time to read this update. I wish all corps members success in their service year and a bright future ahead. Stay informed, remain disciplined, and continue to serve with pride and dedication.
