NYSC Assures Corps Members of Increased Stipends with New Minimum Wage Implementation

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has promised an increase in the monthly stipends of N33,000 for corps members once the Federal Government implements the new minimum wage.

NYSC Director General, Yusha’u Ahmed, made this announcement during his visit to Kebbi and Sokoto states, where he addressed the 2024 Batch ‘B’ stream two corps members at their orientation camps. Ahmed underscored the vital role corps members play in the nation’s socio-economic development and encouraged them to use their service year for personal growth and future planning.

He emphasized the importance of participating in the NYSC Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) program. “At least, learn a skill while in camp, and after the Orientation Course, continue with the post-camp training. Try to acquire a skill that would enable you to create jobs and employ others instead of searching for jobs. We have many ex-Corps members across the country who are doing well in their different vocations today,” Ahmed stated.

The Director General also highlighted the NYSC’s partnerships with organizations such as the Central Bank of Nigeria, Bank of Industry, Unity Bank, Access Bank, and NNPC Foundation, which provide loans and grants to corps members.

Ahmed assured corps members of their safety throughout their service year, mentioning that they would be posted to secure locations but advised them to remain vigilant.

In Kebbi, NYSC Coordinator Aghata Banki-Okolo reported that the 1,195 corps members in the camp, including 1,077 from Kebbi and 118 displaced from Zamfara State, have adapted well to camp life. A total of 240 camp officials are also providing support.

Sokoto NYSC Coordinator Yakubu Usman praised the corps members for their discipline and adaptation, noting that the camp houses 1,488 corps members, including 682 males and 806 females. This total includes 134 males and 66 females displaced from Zamfara due to security concerns.

In July, the organized labour sector negotiated with the federal government to agree on a new minimum wage of N70,000, which will impact corps members’ stipends once implemented.