The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program, a mandatory service for Nigerian graduates, is currently facing significant unrest.
Corps members across the nation are voicing their strong disapproval of the Federal Government’s repeated failure to implement the promised increase in their monthly allowance. This issue has become a focal point of frustration, highlighting the economic hardships faced by young graduates serving their country.
The Federal Government had previously announced and approved an increase in the corps members’ monthly allowance, raising it from the current N33,000 to N77,000. This increment was initially scheduled to take effect in July 2024. However, the implementation has been repeatedly delayed, leading to widespread discontent among the corps members.
The Director-General of the NYSC, Brig. Gen. Yushau Ahmed, had attributed the initial delay to the non-release of necessary funds. He later provided a revised timeline, stating that corps members could expect to begin receiving the increased allowance of N77,000 by February 2025. This announcement, however, has proven to be inaccurate, further eroding the trust of the corps members in the government’s promises.
Despite the official assurances, recent findings and testimonies from corps members reveal that the NYSC has not commenced the payment of the new allowance. Many individuals reported receiving only the previously established N33,000 for their February allowance, contrary to the promised increase. This discrepancy has fueled accusations of insincerity and a lack of commitment from the Federal Government.
Corps members are expressing significant concern over the inadequacy of the current N33,000 allowance. They highlight the exorbitant cost of living, particularly in urban areas, where many are posted. Essential expenses such as accommodation, food, and transportation far exceed the current allowance, forcing them to seek financial assistance from their families or endure severe hardship.
READ:https://naijanewswatch.com/obi-calls-on-goverment/
One corps member serving in Abia State, speaking anonymously, emphasized the severe economic strain. She pointed out that many corps members are posted to places of primary assignment (PPA) that do not provide accommodation, forcing them to bear the cost themselves. The rising cost of food and transportation further exacerbates their financial difficulties, making it nearly impossible to survive on the current allowance.
Another corps member, stationed in Osun State, echoed these sentiments, expressing deep dissatisfaction with the delay in implementing the new allowance. She detailed her monthly expenses, which significantly surpass the N33,000 allowance, forcing her to rely on financial support from her family. The high cost of transportation alone highlights the financial burden placed on corps members.
A corps member serving in Lagos State also expressed her frustration, questioning how anyone could be expected to survive on N33,000 amidst the prevailing economic hardship. She criticized the government for repeatedly promising the increased allowance without fulfilling its commitment. The continuous delay has eroded the corps members’ confidence in the government’s ability to address their financial needs.
Efforts to obtain official comments from the NYSC Director of Communication, Carol Embu, were unsuccessful. However, a senior official within the NYSC, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the scheme has yet to commence the payment of the N77,000 allowance. This confirmation underscores the ongoing discrepancy between official announcements and the actual implementation of the promised increase.
