NYSC Uncertain About ₦77,000 Monthly Allowance Payment For Corps Members

Funding Challenges Delay Implementation of Increased Stipend

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has expressed uncertainty regarding the implementation of the ₦77,000 monthly allowance for corps members, citing funding challenges as the main obstacle.

Despite the Federal Government’s approval of the allowance hike from ₦33,000 to ₦77,000 in July 2024, and assurances that payments would begin in February 2025, corps members have continued to receive the old stipend. This has led to growing frustration, especially amid Nigeria’s rising cost of living.

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NYSC Cites Funding Issues for Payment Delay

Addressing concerns on the matter, Carol Embu, the Acting Director of Information and Public Relations at NYSC, confirmed in an interview with Vanguard in Abuja on Wednesday that the scheme is still working on securing the necessary funds.

“We are currently pursuing the cash backing; that is what is happening,” Embu stated. “We have a new Director-General, who has just taken over and is still familiarizing himself with the situation. Let’s see which direction things will take in the coming weeks.”

She acknowledged that corps members are struggling financially due to the delay, but she could not specify when the payments would commence.

“I cannot specify exactly when the payments will begin, but I assure you that the NYSC is actively pursuing this issue,” she added.

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Brigadier General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, who recently assumed office as the NYSC Director-General, is reportedly still getting acquainted with the matter.

Additionally, Embu noted that the Minister overseeing the NYSC had previously addressed the payment concerns and assured the public that updates would be provided once more clarity is achieved.

“The minister also addressed this matter some time ago. It’s important to note that the minister possesses information that we may not have access to, as he oversees our operations,” she said.

Corps Members Express Frustration Amid High Living Costs

With inflation and the rising cost of essential goods, corps members have voiced concerns over their financial struggles, as the ₦33,000 stipend is widely considered inadequate to meet basic needs.

While the NYSC management remains optimistic that the increase will be implemented, they have urged corps members to exercise patience as they work through the necessary processes.

“We ask for a little more time. However, I am confident that, as with many processes, this will require time as it is part of due diligence,” Embu assured.

Uncertainty Remains Over Payment Timeline

For now, there is no clear timeline on when corps members will begin receiving the ₦77,000 allowance, as the NYSC awaits further directives from the Federal Government.

Meanwhile, corps members continue to appeal for urgent intervention, hoping that the government will expedite the funding process to ease their financial burdens.