The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Nigeria has undergone many revisions regarding the monthly allowance (commonly referred to as “allawee”) given to corps members over the years.
It was understands that the Federal Government just yesterday approved an increase in the monthly allowance of corps members in the NYSC from ₦33,000 to ₦77,000.
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Nigeria has undergone many revisions regarding the monthly allowance (commonly referred to as “allawee”) given to corps members over the years.
It was understands that the Federal Government just yesterday approved an increase in the monthly allowance of corps members in the NYSC from ₦33,000 to ₦77,000.
This was stated in a statement on Wednesday by the Acting Director of Information and Public Relations of the NYSC, Caroline Embu.
The allowance at different times has been increased due to the degree of inflation in the country and in conjunction with minimum wage rises.
Here’s a thorough explanation of how the NYSC allowance has changed:
1. Initial Allowance: When the NYSC was created in 1973, the monthly allowance for corps members was relatively modest. Initially, it was established at a paltry ₦120 (about $0.30) per month, which was designed to pay basic living expenses throughout the one-year required service.
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2. Increment Over the Years: As inflation and the cost of living grew, the allowance was routinely reviewed. By the late 1990s and early 2000s, the NYSC allowance had climbed to over ₦4,000 (approximately $10.50) monthly.
3. 2009 Adjustment: In 2009, the then-Minister of Youth Development, Bolaji Abdullahi, announced a considerable hike, raising the monthly payment to ₦7,500 (approximately $19).
This modification was part of a broader attempt to improve the wellbeing of corps members and manage the rising expenditures connected with living expenses.
4. 2016 Increase: Following talks about the economic problems faced by corps members, the allowance was raised again in 2016 to ₦19,800 (about $51). This increase was well-received, as it aimed to provide better financial help throughout the tough term of national service.
5. 2022 Increase: In 2022, the NYSC allowance witnessed another hike to ₦33,000 (approximately $86). This modification was made amid continued economic concerns and was part of efforts to boost the wellbeing of corps members in light of rising costs.
6. Latest Increase:The federal government, on the 25th of September, 2024 approved an increase in the monthly allowance of corps members in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) from ₦33,000 to ₦77,000.