The Federal Government has officially begun disbursing the long-awaited N77,000 monthly allowance to National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, months after President Bola Tinubu’s announcement of the increase.
While the pay rise initially brought excitement among corps members when it was declared in September 2024, enthusiasm waned as the implementation suffered repeated delays.
For nearly six months, serving corps members continued to receive the old N33,000 stipend, which was introduced in 2020 under former President Muhammadu Buhari.
A corps member in Kwara State, identified simply as Adepoju, confirmed the development, describing the increase as “long overdue.”
He suggested that payments might be processed in batches, stating, “Some of us have received ours, while others are still waiting. Hopefully, it gets to everyone soon.”
The disbursement follows assurances from the Minister of Youths that the government would clear the backlog of delayed allowances.
Social Media Reactions
The payment has triggered reactions on social media, with corps members and Nigerians expressing relief and excitement.
A Twitter user, @ToluDaniel10, remarked:
“NYSC is finally paying 77k to corps members . If you have this girl’s DM, go say a big thank you. I bet the government wouldn’t have listened if not for her.”
Another user, @fimlex2, pointed out the silence surrounding the development compared to the initial outcry over the delay, tweeting:
“NYSC don pay corpers 77k now, see as everywhere just quiet.”
Similarly, @jess_odii confirmed the update, writing:
“NYSC has finally started the 77k payment today.”
For @dreyymo, the news was worth celebrating as they posted with excitement:
“NYSC don pay 77k oooo I feel good ❤.”
A Response to Minimum Wage Adjustments
The stipend increase aligns with the ongoing push for a higher minimum wage by labor unions and the government’s commitment to improving workers’ welfare.
Many corps members hope this adjustment will reflect positively on their service year, easing financial burdens.
