The National Youth Service Corps has expressed uncertainty about paying the recently approved ₦77,000 monthly allowance for corps members due to financial constraints, despite the Federal Government’s approval in July 2024.
The NYSC has failed to implement the increased allowance for corps members, despite the Federal Government’s approval in July 2024, due to funding challenges, according to the scheme’s Acting Director of Information and Public Relations, Carol Embu.
Embu stated that Brigadier General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, the newly appointed NYSC Director-General, is still adjusting to his new role and getting familiar with the situation. She also mentioned that the Minister in charge of the NYSC had previously addressed the issue and promised to provide updates once more information becomes available.
“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 getting up to speed with the situation. Let’s see which direction things 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,” Embu stated.
She acknowledged that the delay has caused corps members significant financial hardship, as the current stipend of ₦33,000 is widely regarded as insufficient. However, she declined to provide a specific timeline for the commencement of the ₦77,000 payments.
“I cannot specify exactly when the payments will start, but I assure you that the NYSC is actively working on this issue. The minister also addressed this matter some time ago. It’s important to note that the minister has access to information that we may not have, 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 added.
The uncertainty surrounding the implementation of the new allowance has raised concerns among corps members, who had been expecting financial relief following the government’s announcement.
