Again, NYSC speaks on implementation date for N77,000 corps member allowance

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has revealed that it is unable to confirm when the recently approved N77,000 monthly allowance for corps members will take effect, despite earlier announcements.

Initially, the increase was expected to begin in July 2024, following the enactment of the Minimum Wage (Amendment) Act 2024, which raised the allowance from N33,000. However, corps members were still paid the old rate of N33,000 in September, sparking confusion and disappointment.

NYSC officials have clarified that the delay is due to necessary administrative procedures that must be completed by the Federal Government before the new allowance can be disbursed. While the approval for the increment has been granted, the exact timeline for implementation remains unclear.

Speaking on the matter, NYSC Public Relations Officer Caroline Embu explained, “It is a process. After making the pronouncement, the government has to work on it before payments can be made. It’s not something that happens automatically.”

She further highlighted that the NYSC is not directly responsible for the payments, stating, “I can’t say if it will be implemented this month. The payment is handled by the Federal Government, not NYSC. Like everyone else, we are waiting for the implementation of the minimum wage.”

The uncertainty has left corps members in limbo, eagerly awaiting further updates from the government regarding the much-anticipated allowance increase.