National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members are calling on the Federal Government to implement the promised increase in their monthly allowance from N33,000 to N77,000, citing economic hardship and unsustainable living conditions. Despite the government’s approval in July 2024, corps members claim they have yet to see any increase in their stipends, with many now resorting to social media to voice their frustrations.
The corps members shared on platforms like Twitter that the current allowance barely covers their basic needs due to soaring costs of transportation, food, and community development contributions. One user, @NoorAjuwon, tweeted, “Three months after, the Federal Government still believes that N33k is enough for NYSC members to survive.” Another, @Arbdoolbasid_Jr, expressed, “How can we concentrate on our primary assignments with N33k in this current economic situation?”
Highlighting the financial strain, @Eze_na_ujari revealed that high transportation expenses consume a significant portion of his stipend, leaving him with barely N26,000 after essential deductions. Other members lamented the poor living conditions in NYSC lodges, with @blazzin_225 describing their state as “suffering and wickedness,” citing dilapidated facilities and inadequate food supply.
In a direct appeal to the authorities, a corps member with the handle @officialABAT wrote, “See us as your children too. We’re dying.” This plea captures the collective frustration and concern about their well-being during the national service period.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that corps members are not only pushing for the timely implementation of the N77,000 allowance but also seeking improvements in their living conditions to enhance their productivity and health during service
