The Federal Government has approved an increment in the monthly allowance for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to ₦77,000, starting from July 2024. This increase aligns with the new National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Act 2024.
The announcement was made via a letter from the National Salaries, Incomes, and Wages Commission, dated September 25, 2024, and signed by its Chairman, Mr. Ekpo Nta. The NYSC shared the update through a statement by Caroline Embu, Acting Director of Information and Public Relations, on their official X (formerly Twitter) account.
Key Details
- Effective Date: The new allowance structure takes effect from July 2024.
- New Monthly Allowance: ₦77,000 (an increase of ₦44,000 from the previous ₦33,000).
- Legal Backing: The increment follows the enactment of the National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Act 2024.
The adjustment comes five years after the last raise in 2019 when Corps Members’ allowance was increased from ₦19,800 to ₦33,000.
Why the Increase?
The increment was the result of an advocacy visit by the NYSC Director General, Brigadier General YD Ahmed, to the National Salaries, Incomes, and Wages Commission. General Ahmed praised the government for the adjustment, noting that it would provide “much-needed relief” and help boost the morale of Corps Members, especially in light of rising living costs.
What This Means for Corps Members
Corps Members can expect:
- Retroactive Payments: The increase will be retroactive from July 2024, meaning any outstanding arrears will be paid.
- Financial Relief: The increment aims to provide additional financial support, helping Corps Members better manage the cost of living amid inflation.
Background on the National Minimum Wage
The allowance increase comes after a new minimum wage of ₦70,000 was negotiated between the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC), and the Federal Government. Following this agreement, President Bola Tinubu proposed a bill to amend the National Minimum Wage Act of 2019. The bill swiftly passed through the National Assembly and was signed into law in July 2024.
While not all states have implemented the new ₦70,000 minimum wage structure, more are expected to adopt it in the coming months, ensuring a wider application of the wage adjustments across the country.
This increase in NYSC allowances reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to improving the welfare of Corps Members, providing them with better financial stability as they contribute to national development.
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