NYSC: Corps members’ allowance to increase with implementation of new minimum wage

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has pledged that the monthly stipend for corps members, currently set at N33,000, will be increased following the implementation of the new minimum wage by the Federal Government.

NYSC Director General, Yusha’u Ahmed, made this announcement on Tuesday during his visit to the orientation camps in Kebbi and Sokoto, where he addressed the 2024 Batch ‘B’ Stream Two corps members.

Ahmed emphasized the significant role corps members play in the nation’s socio-economic development and encouraged them to use their service year as an opportunity for personal growth and future planning. He urged corps members to engage in the NYSC’s skill acquisition and entrepreneurship development programs.

He advised, “Make the most of your time in camp by learning a skill. After completing the Orientation Course, continue with the post-camp training. Aim to acquire skills that will enable you to create jobs and employ others rather than merely seeking employment. Many former corps members are now thriving in their respective fields due to the skills they developed during their service.”

The Director General also highlighted the NYSC’s partnerships with several reputable organizations, including the Central Bank of Nigeria, Bank of Industry, Unity Bank, Access Bank, and the NNPC Foundation, which provide loans and grants to corps members.

He reassured corps members about their safety throughout their service year, promising that they would be posted to secure locations while advising them to remain alert to their surroundings.

NYSC Coordinator in Kebbi, Aghata Banki-Okolo, reported that corps members have adapted well to camp life, responding positively to activities and instructions. She noted that a total of 1,195 corps members are registered, including 1,077 in Kebbi and 118 who were relocated from Zamfara State.

Similarly, Sokoto NYSC Coordinator Yakubu Usman commended the corps members for their discipline and quick adjustment to the camp environment. He stated that Sokoto has 1,488 corps members, comprising 682 males and 806 females, which includes 134 males and 66 females displaced from Zamfara due to security concerns.

In July, the organized labor sector reached an agreement with the federal government on a new minimum wage of N70,000. This increase was legislated by the National Assembly on July 23 and signed into law on July 29, replacing the previous minimum wage of N30,000.