After months of delay following its approval in September 2024, the Federal Government has started disbursing the new ₦77,000 monthly allowance to National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members.
Corps members in different states have confirmed receiving the increased stipend, though reports suggest that payments are being processed in batches, leaving some still waiting.
NYSC Director-General, Brigadier General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, assured corps members in Abuja that everyone would receive their payment.
Similarly, the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, confirmed that the disbursement had been finalized and payments were underway.
Corps members in Kwara, Kano, and Yobe states have reported receiving their allowances, with indications that Batch A Stream 2 members were prioritized in the initial rollout.
‘Not Enough to Cover Expenses’
While many corps members welcomed the increase, some believe that ₦77,000 is still insufficient given the current economic realities.
Adepoju, a corps member in Kwara State, acknowledged the payment, saying, “Yes, the ₦77,000 allowance has started. The increment was long overdue.”
Similarly, Nkiruka, serving in Kano, confirmed, “The increase was much needed, and I have received mine.”
Some reacted with humor. Esther Eric jokingly commented, “DG for president! Thank you, Sir. ₦77k received. Let me go and check land prices.”
However, others voiced concerns about whether the increase would truly ease their financial burden.
Stella Abiodun remarked, “Yes, corps members have started getting ₦77,000, but let’s be honest—it doesn’t go very far in today’s economy. This only shows that they are listening, but we need to keep demanding better. If we could push for this, we can fight for even more improvements.”
Despite the ongoing disbursement, some corps members are still waiting for their payments, raising concerns over when the process will be completed.