Members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) have expressed concerns about unfulfilled promises made by the Director-General, Brigadier General Yushau Ahmed, during the orientation camp for the 2024 Batch ‘C’ Stream II in Katsina State.
In January 2025, Brigadier General Ahmed announced plans to introduce an increased monthly allowance of N77,000 for corps members, which was set to take effect in February 2025. However, numerous corps members are still receiving the current allowance of N33,000, which they claim is insufficient for their living expenses.
A corps member, who wished to remain anonymous due to restrictions on media interactions, pointed out the financial difficulties many in the program are facing. She mentioned that the existing allowance does not support basic needs, especially since their Place of Primary Assignment (PPA) does not offer housing, forcing them to locate and finance their own accommodation. She emphasized that the escalating cost of living intensifies the problem, making it nearly impossible to survive on the current allowance.
See also: NYSC DG Explains Delay in Corps Members’ Allowance Increase(Opens in a new browser tab)
Another corps member stationed in Osun echoed these feelings, underscoring the inadequacy of the N33,000 allowance. She explained that her monthly expenses surpass N70,000, mainly due to transportation and other necessities, driving her to seek financial help from relatives.
In Lagos, a third corps member voiced frustration over the postponement of the promised increase. She questioned how the NYSC expects corps members to maintain themselves amid rising living expenses, particularly when the expected allowance of N77,000 has not yet been implemented.
Attempts to contact Carol Embu, the NYSC’s Director of Communication, for a response on the issue were unsuccessful, as both calls and messages went unanswered. Nevertheless, a senior NYSC official, who requested anonymity, confirmed that the new allowance payments have not yet started.
