The Nigerian government has officially increased the monthly allowance for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to N77,000, a significant jump from the previous N33,000. This new rate took effect in July 2024, according to a statement on NYSC’s X page, signed by Acting Director of Information and Public Relations, Caroline Embu.

The announcement comes following a letter from the National Salaries, Incomes, and Wages Commission, dated September 25, and signed by the Commission’s Chairman, Ekpo Nta. The raise aligns with the recently amended National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Act of 2024.

ALSO READ: Nigerian Lecturer Nsikak Akpan Sets Out to Break Guinness World Record with 150-Hour Lecture Marathon

This latest increase is a result of advocacy efforts led by NYSC Director General Yusha’u Ahmed, who visited the National Salaries, Incomes, and Wages Commission. The previous allowance adjustment, from N19,800 to N33,000, occurred five years ago.

Minimum Wage Influence

In July 2024, President Bola Tinubu signed the new minimum wage bill into law after lengthy negotiations between the government, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and the Trade Union Congress (TUC). The law increased the National Minimum Wage from ₦30,000 to ₦70,000, following a series of strikes by labor unions demanding higher wages.

As part of the changes, corps members now receive an additional N44,000, retroactive from July, offering financial relief amidst inflation and rising living costs.

NYSC Director General Yusha’u Ahmed thanked the government, noting that this increase would provide much-needed support and boost the morale of corps members across the country.