The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has attributed the delay in implementing the approved increase in corps members’ monthly allowance to funding challenges.
Despite the Federal Government’s approval in July 2024 to raise the stipend from ₦33,000 to ₦77,000, and assurances that payments would commence in February 2025, corps members are yet to receive the new allowance.
The continued delay has thrown serving corps members into frustration, especially amid Nigeria’s rising cost of living.
Addressing the issue in an interview with Vanguard on Wednesday in Abuja, NYSC’s Acting Director of Information and Public Relations, Carol Embu, said that the scheme is actively working to secure cash backing for the new allowance but noted that due process must be followed.
“We are currently pursuing the cash backing; that is what is happening. We have a new Director-General who has just taken over and is still familiarising himself with the situation. Let’s see which direction things will take in the coming weeks. 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.
“I cannot specify exactly when the payments will commence, but I assure you that the NYSC is actively pursuing this issue. 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. Rest assured, once we have clarity on when the payments will begin, I will inform you. We are still awaiting further updates,” she said.
Embu also noted that the newly appointed NYSC Director-General, Brigadier General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, is still getting acquainted with the matter.
She reassured corps members that the scheme is committed to resolving the issue but could not provide a specific timeline for the disbursement.
Meanwhile, the delay has left many corps members struggling financially, as the old stipend is widely considered inadequate to cover basic expenses.
