The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has raised concerns over the failure of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to commence payment of the newly approved N77,000 monthly allowance for corps members.
The student body is calling for an investigation into the delay, stating that corps members have been left in financial uncertainty despite earlier assurances from NYSC leadership.
Speaking on behalf of NANS, the National Vice President for Inter-Campus Affairs, Akinbodunse Sileola Felicia, criticized the non-implementation of the new allowance, which was approved by the Federal Government in July 2024.
She noted that corps members were still being paid N33,000 as of February 2025, contrary to expectations.
“It is unacceptable that months after the Federal Government approved the new allowance, corps members are yet to receive it. The NYSC must provide a clear explanation for this delay,” she stated.
NANS recalled that NYSC Director-General, Brig. Gen. Yushau Ahmed, had previously announced that the new allowance would be implemented from February 2025. However, findings by NANS revealed that corps members only received N33,000 last Friday, falling short of the promised increase.
Felicia expressed disappointment over the situation, pointing out that “the Federal Government and several state governments have already begun paying the new N70,000 minimum wage to their workers. Why then should corps members still be left behind?”
She argued that the failure to implement the new allowance was unjust and could dampen the morale of corps members, especially given the current economic realities.
While Brig. Gen. Ahmed attributed the delay to the non-release of funds, NANS is demanding a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the setback. “The Federal Government must look into this matter and ensure corps members are not shortchanged,” Felicia insisted.
She further revealed that NANS would engage with NYSC management to seek further clarification, stating, “It is disturbing that while NYSC staff have received salary adjustments, corps members are still being paid the old rate. The leadership of NANS will take up this matter to ensure corps members get what they rightfully deserve.”
NANS has urged the Federal Government to intervene urgently and ensure corps members receive their full entitlements without further delay.
