Abia State Governor Alex Otti has issued a directive for the immediate implementation of the new allowance for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members serving in the state. The directive, announced on Tuesday, mandates that all relevant state agencies begin paying the increased allowance without delay, effective from March 2025.
Background of the Allowance Increase
The allowance hike follows a federal government approval to raise the monthly stipend for corps members from N33,000 to N77,000. This adjustment is part of broader efforts to improve the welfare of youth corps members across Nigeria. Abia State is among the first states to announce full compliance with the new rate.
Government's Commitment to Youth Welfare
In a statement issued by the Governor's Chief Press Secretary, Kazie Uko, Governor Otti emphasized that the state government is committed to the well-being of corps members. "We value the contributions of NYSC members to the development of Abia State, and this increment is a testament to our administration's dedication to their welfare," the statement quoted Otti as saying.
Implementation Details
The directive covers all corps members currently posted to Abia State, including those in primary assignments, local government areas, and other state institutions. The state's Ministry of Youth Development and the Abia State NYSC Secretariat have been instructed to ensure seamless payment starting from the March 2025 allowance cycle.
Reactions from Corps Members
Corps members in Abia have welcomed the development, expressing gratitude to the governor for prioritizing their welfare. Many hope that other states will follow suit to ensure uniformity across the country. The NYSC state coordinator also lauded the decision, noting that it would boost morale and productivity among corps members.
Broader Context
The federal government's approval of the allowance increase came after prolonged advocacy by NYSC officials and corps members. The new stipend is expected to help corps members cope with rising living costs. Abia State's prompt implementation sets a precedent for other states to emulate.
