The Federal Government has commenced payment of the new N77,000 monthly allowance to National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had announced the increase in September 2024, sparking excitement among corps members. However, delays in implementation led to months of frustration, with serving members continuing to receive the previous N33,000 allowance introduced in 2020 under former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Confirming the development to Tribune Online, a corps member in Kwara State, identified as Adepoju, stated that the payment has begun. He described the increase as “long overdue” and suggested that the disbursement is happening in batches, as some corps members have received their new allowance while others are still waiting.
Reactions from Nigerians
Nigerians on social media have been reacting to the news.
A Twitter user, @ToluDaniel10, wrote:
“NYSC is finally paying 77k to corps members ????????. If you have this girl’s DM, go say a big thank you. I bet the government wouldn’t have listened to you if not for her.”
Another user, @fimlex2, noted the silence compared to the uproar when the payments were delayed:
“NYSC don pay corpers 77k now, see as everywhere just quiet.”
Similarly, @jess_odii confirmed the update, stating:
“NYSC has finally started the 77k payment today.”
For @dreyymo, the news was cause for celebration:
“NYSC don pay 77k oooo???????????? I feel good ????❤.”
This increment aligns with the new minimum wage adjustments advocated by labour unions and the government.
Government Assurances on Backlog Payments
The Minister of Youths previously assured corps members that any backlog of the N77,000 allowance would be paid. While some have already received their payments, others are still awaiting confirmation.
EduTimes Africa, a product of Education Times Africa, is a magazine publication that aims to lend its support to close the yawning gap in Africa's educational development.
