The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has assured corps members that their monthly allowance of ₦33,000 will be increased in line with the implementation of the new minimum wage by the Federal Government.
This assurance was given by the NYSC Director-General, Yusha’u Ahmed, during his visit to the 2024 Batch ‘B’ stream two corps members at orientation camps in Kebbi and Sokoto states.
During his address, Ahmed highlighted the vital contributions of corps members to Nigeria’s socio-economic development and urged them to maximize their service year by acquiring skills that would prepare them for a successful future. He encouraged them to participate fully in the NYSC’s skill acquisition and entrepreneurship development program, stressing the importance of learning a trade during their time in camp and continuing with post-camp training.
“At a minimum, ensure you learn a skill while in camp. After the Orientation Course, continue to build on this knowledge through post-camp training,” Ahmed advised.
“Your goal should be to acquire a skill that empowers you to create jobs and employ others, rather than seeking employment. Many former corps members have gone on to excel in various fields after learning these skills.”
The Director-General also underscored the NYSC’s partnerships with several reputable organizations, including the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Bank of Industry (BOI), Unity Bank, Access Bank, and NNPC Foundation, which provide loans and grants to support corps members in their entrepreneurial endeavors.
In addition to financial support, Ahmed reassured corps members of their safety throughout their service year, noting that they would be posted to secure locations. He advised them to stay vigilant and be aware of their surroundings at all times.
This development follows the July agreement between organized labor and the federal government, which established a new minimum wage of ₦70,000. The National Assembly passed the bill to raise Nigeria’s minimum wage from ₦30,000 on July 23, and it was signed into law on July 29.
