Uncertainty Looms Over Implementation of New N77,000 NYSC Allowance

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has expressed uncertainty regarding the commencement of the newly approved N77,000 monthly allowance for corps members. This increase, announced in September 2024, raised the allowance from the previous N33,000 and was meant to take effect from July 2024, following the enactment of the Minimum Wage (Amendment) Act 2024. However, despite the approval, corps members were paid the old rate of N33,000 in September, leading to frustration and confusion.

In response, NYSC’s Acting Director of Information and Public Relations, Caroline Embu, clarified that the delay stems from the government’s administrative process. She emphasized that while the allowance increase has been approved, the implementation is not immediate and requires several procedural steps. Embu pointed out that similar delays have been experienced with the general minimum wage adjustment.

When asked about the timeline for the updated allowance, Embu admitted that even NYSC is uncertain about when the payments will begin. She reiterated that the responsibility for implementing the new allowance lies with the Federal Government, and like everyone else, the NYSC is awaiting further instructions.